Family Times February 2024

FEBRUARY 2024

10

reasons the Tooth Fairy didn’t visit last night

Valentine’s Day parties for kids

– at school or home

February break fun

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8

Editor’s Note

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Question of the Month

8

Educator of the Month

9

Treat Yourself The winter months are a great time to visit Green Lakes State Park.

10 315 Bulletin

February 2024

CONTENTS 9

4

12 Parenting

16

Ten excuses for when the Tooth Fairy forgets to come.

14 Feature

Whether you’re celebrating at school or at home, your kids will enjoy these Valentine’s Day crafts and games.

16 Together Times

Searching for winter break activities?

Start with our list of area camps and attractions.

18 Calendar

14

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 3

EDITOR’S NOTE

The Parenting Guide of Central New York FEBRUARY 2024 | ISSUE NO. 260

W

FEATURE

Whether you’re celebrating at home or at school, make your child’s holiday special this year with the crafts and games on page 14. And we didn’t forget about you, parents! There are links for Central New York flower shops and date night spots on page 15.

There are many other special days this month, including National Tooth Fairy Day, which falls on Feb. 28. On page 12, Katy Clark offers 10 excuses for those nights when the Tooth Fairy forgets to come.

ISTOCK PHOTOS

hen I was a child, I always looked forward to Valentine’s Day. My favorite part was choosing cards to hand out to the rest of my class.

GENIUSES AT WORK Play PUBLISHER/OWNER William Brod

EDITOR IN CHIEF Courtney Kless CourtneyK@familytimescny.com

Fun Valentine’s for Kids – At Sc Day Parties hool or Home

W

BY KIMBERLY

hether you’re helping with your child’s Valentine’s Day party at school or planning one at home, there are so many fun, creativ and make their party e ways to keep kids busy a blast. Try some ideas kids are sure of these to love:

CRAFTS

Heart suncatcher.

Lay a sheet of wax child. Then have paper in front of the kids cut red, each pink, and white tissue squares or other paper into shapes. Next, lay a tissue square on and brush it with the wax paper liquid starch. Contin ue by overlapping of tissue to create the pieces an 8” x 8” collage . When the collage fully peel the tissue is dry, careaway from the wax paper. Cut the collage a big heart. Then put a single hole into punch in the heart, piece of yarn or ribbon and thread a through it to hang it.

Heart structures.

Provide each child and toothpicks, and a supply of gummy let their creativity hearts take over. They can a house, sphere, rocket, airplane, build or whatever their desires. imagination Finger paint Valen tine. Fold a piece out a large heart. of paper in half and Next, cut hole on top of anothe place the paper with the big heart-s haped r piece of paper.

Dip a thumb or finger paint and make a finger impression into the within the heart-s haped area.

14 | FAMILY TIMES

FEBRUARY 2024

BLAKER

Alternate colors and fingers until the whole area is colorful fingerprints. filled with When done, remove have a colorful heart the top sheet, and you’ll image underneath.

Valentine candle holder. Give each them start by cutting child a glass jar.

Have red, white, and pink hearts or other shapes tissue paper into small . Using a mixture parts water and a of one part flour and two paintbrush, paste the tissue shapes overlapping each onto the jar, other until the jar is completely covered .

GAMES

Musical hearts . This chairs. Cut out enough game is played similar to musica l hearts for the numbe heart, write an action r of players. On each such as “rub your tend you’re an elephan belly,” “dance,” and “pret.” When the music act out the heart stops, everyone must they landed on.

Pin the heart on the Tin Man. Draw large sheet of poster the Tin Man on a board, then cut it out. Have each kid a heart from constru cut out ction paper. Then blindfold and spin child around and have them try to each place the heart on Man’s chest. the Tin Candy heart bingo.

Buy a Valentine’s able through many Day bingo game online retailers.

Then use candy hearts availmarkers. for the

CONTENT DIRECTOR Steve Guglielmo CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Robin Barnes GRAPHIC DESIGNER Renate Wood CONTRIBUTORS Kimberly Blaker, Katy Clark, Janelle Davis SALES MANAGER Tim Hudson (ext. 201) ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Lesli Mitchell (ext. 204) LMitchell@familytimescny.com

We hope you enjoy this issue – and Happy Valentine’s Day!

Courtney Kless EDITOR IN CHIEF

ADDRESS 9 Albany St., Suite 2e Cazenovia, NY 13035 (315) 422-7011 fax: (315) 422-1721

familytimescny.com

Inside: If you’re staying in town for winter break (or you’re visiting Central New York), check out our list of area attractions, camps, and more on page 16.

CENTRAL NEW YORK

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Advertising deadline for March is February 12. Calendar deadline for March is February 5.

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What is your favorite place in Central New York to get dinner – or dessert – for Valentine’s Day? “Daniella’s Steakhouse.”

– MICHELLE, SYRACUSE

“Grotto in North Syracuse.”

– DANIELLE, SYRACUSE

“Barado’s on the Water.”

– MICHELE, BREWERTON

“Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub in Syracuse, NY.” – BRIDGET, LIVERPOOL

QUESTION

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ISTOCK PHOTO

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For more information and a tour, call 315-440-2244 canterburystablesny.com FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 7

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PAM CIARLA

EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH

Pam Ciarla, Special Education Teacher at West Genesee Intermediate School

BY JANELLE DAVIS

1. What is your educational background and what are you teaching?

I attended The Ohio State University for both my undergrad and graduate degrees.

I have my master’s in special education. I recently earned National Board Certification in Exceptional Needs Specialist-Early Childhood through Young Adulthood-Mild/ Moderate Disabilities (ages 5-21+).

I have taught in the West Genesee Central School District for the last 25 years. I am a sixth grade special education teacher at West Genesee Intermediate School.

I push into English, math, science, and social studies. I also teach small groups of students in a resource setting.

2. How do you keep your students engaged?

To keep my students engaged, I create lessons with a variety of components. I incorporate technology, interaction with their peers, and time for demonstrating independent mastery. I use a mix of direct instruction and a gradual release model, so my students learn a new skill through modeling. Then we work together as I guide them in using their new skill. The students 8 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

are excited to be able to independently demonstrate their understanding of the skill.

3. What is most rewarding about special education?

The most rewarding thing about teaching students with special needs is helping them to feel successful. Witnessing my students’ growth and progress is the most rewarding part of being a special education teacher. It has always been my passion to help students to reach their full potential.

got him glasses, which was huge. The joy he had when he put them on was so sweet, it tugged at my heartstrings. Then yesterday, I found out he is moving to Texas. It felt like a rug ripped out from under me because we build these close relationships with the kids as if they were our own.

Janelle Davis is a freelance writer living in Fairmount with her family.

4. What are any obstacles you have had to face, if any, and how did you overcome them?

By working together as a team, we create a successful learning environment for every student. We overcome any situation as well as celebrate successes.

One obstacle is that there’s never enough time in a day to get everything done.

Also, the unpredictability that can occur.

I have a visually impaired student. And I

Know an educator who deserves a mention?

Email courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

COURTNEY KLESS PHOTOS

TREAT YOURSELF

Treat Yourself

The winter months are a great time to visit Green Lakes State Park

BY COURTNEY KLESS

I

f you’re a frequent Family Times reader, you likely know that hiking is among my favorite ways to spend my spare time.

Green Lakes State Park has some great trails that can be enjoyed all year round.

Located in Fayetteville, the state park is a popular swimming spot (it is also where I had my first date with my husband 11 years ago), but there are plenty of other ways to explore its grounds during Central New York’s coldest days.

Green Lakes State Park’s 18-hole golf course remains open to snowshoers, and there are 15 miles of trails for cross-country skiers (equipment for both can be rented across the street at Four Seasons Golf & Ski

Center if you don’t already have your own).

And, of course, you can hike the trails if that’s more your speed. My favorite is the 1.9-mile Green Lakes Trail, which wraps around one of the park’s two meromictic lakes (basically, their surface and bottom waters do not mix during the fall and spring). The views can’t be beat.

And as a bonus, admission is free until Memorial Day. So, what are you waiting for?

Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times.

She lives in Camillus with her husband.

If You Go Green Lakes State Park Where: 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville.

More information: ny.gov/parks/172.

These are some of my other favorite places to go on a winter hike: • Camillus Erie Canal Park • Clark Reservation State Park • Onondaga Lake Park

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 9

315 BULLETIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF GIRL SCOUTS OF NYPENN PATHWAYS

Cookie Season Begins for Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways Craving cookies? Troops in the Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (GSNYPENN) Council are selling the sweet treat through March 31.

This year, there are nine varieties to choose from: Samoas®, Tagalongs®, Do-si-dos®, Lemon-Ups®, Thin Mints®, Toffee-tastic®, Trefoils®, Girl Scout S’mores®, and Adventurefuls™. Each box costs $6, a $1 increase from 2023.

“When our bold, goal-setting Girl Scouts sell cookies, they’re doing so much more than what we see at face value,” said GSNYPENN CEO Julie Dale in a press release. “They’re entrepreneurial youth leaders creating a more equitable future for themselves and our world. We very much appreciate our community’s support during the annual cookie program.”

Syracuse Stage Announces Next Production Are you in need of a laugh? Syracuse Stage will present the dramedy Clyde’s through Feb. 18.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center Hosts The Beauty of Birds If you’re searching for something fun – and educational – to do during February break, stop by Baltimore Woods Nature Center.

Showcasing photographs by Meg Schader, The Beauty of Birds exhibit will be on display through Feb. 24.

“This is not only a great display of a variety of beautiful birds; it is also an excellent opportunity for learning,” said Gallery Coordinator Karen Jean Smith in a press release. “Each one of the birds is labeled and other information has been included in the exhibit as well, including a bird identification challenge for kids of all ages.”

For more information, visit baltimorewoods.org/art-gallery.

BULLETIN 10 | FAMILY TIMES 315 FEBRUARY 2024

“I am so grateful to Syracuse Stage and Portland Center Stage for the opportunity to dive into Lynn Nottage’s excellent play,” said Director Chip Miller. “With humor and heart, Clyde’s is a meditation on how we access our humanity after we’ve been robbed of it and the power of a collective to make small, but significant steps towards redemption through the act of nourishing others. I cannot wait to explore the rich and delicious world of these characters with this incredible team of collaborators.”

And there’s more on the schedule. Syracuse Stage will close out its 50th anniversary season with performances of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express (March 13-31) and Once (May 1-19).

For more information, visit syracusestage.org.

For more community news, visit communityguide.familytimescny.com/article.

To submit a news item, email courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

IMAGE COURTESY OF SYRACUSE STAGE

PHOTO COURTESY OF BALTIMORE WOODS NATURE CENTER

For more information, visit gsnypenn.org.

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ISTOCK PHOTO

PARENTING

10 Reasons Why the Tooth Fairy Did Not Come Last Night

BY KATY M. CLARK

I

t glistened in the soft morning light, the single tear that fell from my 8-year-old daughter’s eye as she stood in our bedroom doorway.

“Mommy, she didn’t come!” she breathed despondently.

Then that single tear turned into a torrent.

Oh, fudge. The Tooth Fairy didn’t come last night.

“Uh,” I stammered in reply, elbowing my husband awake.

“What happened?” he mumbled.

“The Tooth Fairy didn’t come last night,” I replied.

“Oh, fudge,” he said. Only he didn’t say fudge.

How did we let this happen? Quickly, I reviewed the night before.

Exhausted by my first girls’ night out in three months, I had gone to bed at 10 p.m. (don’t judge) and left the money with my husband.

12 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

He simply fell asleep before remembering his Tooth Fairy duties.

There were more extenuating circumstances, too. Our daughter’s tooth had been wiggly for just a day. That was extremely short notice vs. those teeth that hang on by a thread for weeks. Plus, it had been months since she’d lost her last tooth. Our son, 12, had long since finished losing his baby teeth. My husband and I were definitely rusty in our duties as well as in the twilight of our Tooth Fairy career.

Still, the plain, hard truth was that we blew it. The Tooth Fairy did not come.

We sprang out of bed, soothing our daughter (and each other) with hugs and reassuring words. There HAD to be a good reason she didn’t come, we told our daughter. In fact, my husband and I, along with friends, family, and the internet, came up with 10 Rea-

PARENTING sons Why the Tooth Fairy did not come last night: 1.

The dew was too heavy. Her wings got wet, and she couldn’t fly.

2.

The Tooth Fairy was on vacation and the substitute Tooth Fairy didn’t know what she was doing.

3.

She couldn’t get to your pillow due to your messy room.

4.

Too much traffic. She’ll leave earlier tonight!

5.

She was sick.

6.

Spreadsheet error. Your tooth was projected to come out on Friday, so she wasn’t ready when it came out on Monday.

7.

Some Tooth Fairies like snacks. Leave one out tonight and she’ll probably come.

8. Oh, look, she dropped the money on the floor over there.

She must have wanted you to keep your tooth as a souvenir.

9.

You probably woke up and scared her away, even if you don’t remember doing that.

Did You Know?

Feb. 28 is National Tooth Fairy Day

10. She ran out of money and will be back tonight. She’s a tiny fairy so she can only carry so much.

The Average Tooth Value

My daughter seemed to calm down after she spent the day listening to our reasons why the Tooth Fairy did not come. All was made right with the world the following the morning when, hallelujah, the Tooth Fairy DID come.

Moms and dads: may your Tooth Fairy always remember to come. In case she doesn’t, may you find these reasons to be a lifesaver!

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ISTOCK PHOTOS

FEATURE

Fun Valentine’s Day Parties for Kids – At School or Home

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

W

hether you’re helping with your child’s Valentine’s Day party at school or planning one at home, there are so many fun, creative ways to keep kids busy and make their party a blast. Try some of these ideas kids are sure to love:

CRAFTS Heart suncatcher. Lay a sheet of wax paper in front of each child. Then have the kids cut red, pink, and white tissue paper into squares or other shapes. Next, lay a tissue square on the wax paper and brush it with liquid starch. Continue by overlapping the pieces of tissue to create an 8” x 8” collage. When the collage is dry, carefully peel the tissue away from the wax paper. Cut the collage into a big heart. Then put a single hole punch in the heart, and thread a piece of yarn or ribbon through it to hang it.

Heart structures. Provide each child a supply of gummy hearts and toothpicks, and let their creativity take over. They can build a house, sphere, rocket, airplane, or whatever their imagination desires.

Finger paint Valentine. Fold a piece of paper in half and cut out a large heart. Next, place the paper with the big heart-shaped hole on top of another piece of paper. Dip a thumb or finger into the paint and make a finger impression within the heart-shaped area.

14 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

Alternate colors and fingers until the whole area is filled with colorful fingerprints. When done, remove the top sheet, and you’ll have a colorful heart image underneath.

Valentine candle holder. Give each child a glass jar. Have them start by cutting red, white, and pink tissue paper into small hearts or other shapes. Using a mixture of one part flour and two parts water and a paintbrush, paste the tissue shapes onto the jar, overlapping each other until the jar is completely covered.

GAMES Musical hearts. This game is played similar to musical chairs. Cut out enough hearts for the number of players. On each heart, write an action such as “rub your belly,” “dance,” and “pretend you’re an elephant.” When the music stops, everyone must act out the heart they landed on.

Pin the heart on the Tin Man. Draw the Tin Man on a large sheet of poster board, then cut it out. Have each kid cut out a heart from construction paper. Then blindfold and spin each child around and have them try to place the heart on the Tin Man’s chest.

Candy heart bingo. Buy a Valentine’s Day bingo game available through many online retailers. Then use candy hearts for the markers.

FEATURE Valentine’s Day word find. Have each kid write “Valentine’s Day Cupid” on a sheet of paper. Then have them write down as many words as they can make from it. Offer prizes for the most words, longest word, and the most rhyming words.

BOOKS What would Valentine’s Day be without a special Valentine’s story or two?

Read aloud to younger kids. If they’re readers, have each kid take a turn reading a page.

• Happy Valentine’s Day, Charlie Brown

By Charles M. Schulz. Ages 5-7.

• Amelia Bedelia’s First Valentine

By Herman Parish and Lynne Avril.

Ages 4-8.

• Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentime

By Barbara Park and Denise Brunkas.

Ages 6-9.

• Happy Love Day, Daniel Tiger!

By Becky Friedman and Jason Fruchter. Ages 3-7.

• Thomas in Town: Valentine’s Day in Vicarstown

By Rev. W. Awdry. Ages 3-7.

• Dumpy’s Valentine

By Julie Andrews Edwards and Emma Walton Hamilton. Ages 4-7.

• Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse

By Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond.

Ages 4-8.

• Ruby Valentine and the Sweet Surprise

By Laurie B. Friedman and Lynne Avril. Ages 5-9.

• Valentine Hearts: Holiday Poetry

By Lee Bennett Hopkins. Ages 4-8.

Glazed Raspberry Donuts RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF HOOD

DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

STEP 1

DONUTS • 2 cups whole wheat flour • 2 tsp. baking powder • ½ tsp. baking soda • 1 tsp. salt

STEP 2

• ⅔ cup sugar • 2 large eggs • 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract • 2 tbsp. canola oil • ½ cup Hood 1% Lowfat Milk in the LightBlock Bottle • 1 cup Hood Sour Cream • 1 ½ cup fresh raspberries, washed and dried, divided

GLAZE • 2 cups powdered sugar • ¼ cup Hood 1% Lowfat Milk in the LightBlock Bottle • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

DINING OPTIONS

For Parents

Preheat oven to 350˚F. Coat donut baking pan with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Our Community Guide features more than 40 local restaurants that are perfect for Valentine’s Day – or a future date night. Click here to check them out (and to view menus).

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, vanilla extract, oil, milk, and sour cream. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir until just combined. Gently fold in half the raspberries.

STEP 3 Spoon batter into the pan, spreading evenly and filling almost to the top. Top with remaining raspberries. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the donut comes out clean. Do not overcook. Take donuts out of the pan and cool on a wire rack.

STEP 4 To make glaze, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle on cooled donuts.

CNY FLOWER SHOPS Are you looking to order flowers for that special someone? Click here for a list of some of the shops in the area.

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 15

TOGETHER TIMES Rosamond Gifford Zoo. MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

February Break Fun

A

re you looking for some things you can do with your family over winter break? Start with this list of area camps and attractions:

CAMPS Art Infusion School Break Camp.

Feb. 19-23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 5-10. This camp will feature art, drama, and games (February’s theme is Winter Wonderland).

Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. romeart.org.

Winter Nature Camp. Feb. 19-23, 9 a.m.-

3 p.m. Grades 1-4. Attendees will snowshoe, build snow sculptures, and more.

Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. events.onondagacountyparks.com.

Winter Break One Day Zoo Camps. Feb.

19-23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages 6-12. Attendees will complete STEAM activities and learn about animals. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Registration required: rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Winter Art Camp. Feb. 19-23, 9 a.m.-

4 p.m. Ages 8-12. Attendees will view the museum’s exhibitions – then make 16 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

works of art. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. everson.org.

School Vacation Gymnastics Camp.

Feb. 19-23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (full day) and 9 a.m.-noon (half day). Ages 5-12. Activities include: gymnastics, games, and arts and crafts. 3133 Erie Boulevard E., Syracuse (DeWitt location). 4155 State Highway 31, Clay (Clay location). cnygymcentre.com.

AREA ATTRACTIONS Children’s Museum of Oswego. 7 W

Bridge St., Oswego. Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $11/children; $10/adults; free/children under age 1. cmoo.org. Visit town square, play with water, and learn about lake effect snow and the recycling process.

Erie Canal Museum. 318 Erie Blvd.

E., Syracuse. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 suggested donation. eriecanalmuseum. org. Home to eight permanent exhibits, including a canal town, a full-size replica boat, and children’s area.

Everson Museum of Art. 401 Harrison

St., Syracuse. Wednesday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $10/adults; $8/seniors (65+)

and students; free/children ages 12 and under. everson.org. World-class museum includes Children’s Interactive Gallery designed to acquaint beginning art viewers with basic art principles.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). 500 S. Franklin St., Armory

Square, Syracuse. Thursdays-Sundays (plus February break), 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museum admission: $14/adults; $10/children ages 2-15 and seniors (65+); free/children under age 2. most.org. View life-size dinosaurs in the Dino Zone, visit the Earth Science Discovery Cave, learn about the human body, and more.

Onondaga Historical Association Museum. 320 Montgomery St., Syracuse.

Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Donation. cnyhistory.org. Syracuse’s only comprehensive local history museum, with exhibits on architecture, local industries, transportation, and more.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo. 1 Conservation

Place, Syracuse. Daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Discounted admission in February: $5/ adults; $2.50/seniors (62+); $2/youth (ages 3-17); free/ages 2 and under. rosamondgiffordzoo.org. Ongoing attractions include a snow leopard, an Amur tiger, and Humboldt penguins.

TOGETHER TIMES Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5

p.m. Admission: $12.25/general admission; free/children under age 2. sciencenter.org. Inspires people of all ages to discover the excitement of science through exhibits and programs.

Utica Zoo. 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica. Daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Admission: $9/adults (ages 13-61); $6/kids (ages 2-12); $8/seniors (ages 62+), military and college students. uticazoo.org. Visit more than 200 animals, including wallabies, beavers, African lions, mountain zebras, lynxes, red foxes, and spider monkeys.

Day Trip Destinations Winter break is also the perfect time to get out of town. Here are some of the destinations we have featured:

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Rainbow Snowflakes Assemble your materials — many of which you probably already have on hand — to make a craft that can be creative and fun for all ages.

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FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 17

ISTOCK PHOTOS

CALENDAR

FEBRUARY 2024

Please note: This calendar was up-to-date

at the time of publication. Please call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website to confirm event details.

THURSDAY, FEB. 1 See Library & Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, FEB. 3 Brilliant Bird Builders – The Creativity of the World’s Feathered Creatures.

10-11:30 a.m. Geared for kids aged 3-6, this program offers hands-on experiences.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $30/one child and adult (non-members). Registration required: rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Junior Naturalist Program. 10-11:30 a.m.

and 1-2:30 p.m. Each month, families can enjoy themed walks and nature activities.

Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. oswego. edu/rice-creek.

KeyBank Future Innovators – Astrophysics. 10 a.m.-noon. This program

FRIDAY, FEB. 2 Syracuse Winter Fair. 3-9 p.m. This

annual event features music, food, fireworks and a mini midway. Expo Center, New York State Fairground, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. Pre-sale tickets: $5/adults; $3/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+); free/ ages 10 and under. At the door: $7/adults; $5/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+). Free parking. nyswinterfair.com.

18 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

for students in grades 6-9 “is designed to connect Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students with skill-based science learning opportunities as well as support and mentorship from scientists and professionals of color in the CNY community.” Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free.

Registration required: most.org.

Peter and the Wolf. 10:30 a.m. Watch

as Symphoria performs the tale by Sergei Prokofiev. RedHouse Arts Center, 400 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $15/adults; $10/

seniors; $5/college students; free/children under 18. experiencesymphoria.org.

Winter Living Celebration. 11 a.m.-3

p.m. Activities include: horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice sculpture demonstrations, ice fishing and marshmallow roasting. There will also be activities for children. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 Route 80, Sherburne. Free. (607) 674-4733. friendsofrogers.org.

Syracuse Winter Fair.

11 a.m.-9 p.m. This annual event features music, food, fireworks and a mini midway. Expo Center, New York State Fairground, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse.

Pre-sale tickets: $5/adults; $3/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+); free/ages 10 and under. At the door: $7/adults; $5/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+). Free parking. nyswinterfair.com.

EcosySTEM Explorers. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Children ages 6-12 can learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics through project-based learning. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $30/child (non-members).

Registration required: rosamond giffordzoo.org.

CALENDAR SUNDAY, FEB. 4 Pokémon GO Community Day. 10

a.m.-4:30 p.m. Go on a Pokémon-themed scavenger hunt, earn “Utica Zoo Animal Conservation Cards,” and visit the education booth centered around the featured Pokémon, Wooper. Utica Zoo, 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica. Included with admission: $9/ adults (ages 13-61); $6/kids (ages 2-12); $8/ seniors (ages 62+), military and college students. uticazoo.org.

Syracuse Winter Fair. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. This

annual event features music, food, fireworks and a mini midway. Expo Center, New York State Fairground, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. Pre-sale tickets: $5/adults; $3/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+); free/ ages 10 and under. At the door: $7/adults; $5/ages 11-16 and seniors (ages 65+). Free parking. nyswinterfair.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 5 Wild Beginnings: What Does a Leopard Eat for Lunch? 9:15-10 a.m. and

10:30-11:15 a.m. During this three-week program, children ages 12 months to 3 years, and a caregiver, can take part in a themed class with sensory play, animal biofacts and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $50/ one child and adult (non-members); $25/ each additional child (same session).

Registration required: rosamond giffordzoo.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6 See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 7 Storytime & Hike. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Each session will feature stories, songs and exploration. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 Route 80, Sherburne. Free. (607) 674-4733. friends ofrogers.org.

Sharing Nature with Your Child. 11 a.m.-

noon. Children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult, can take part in outdoor and nature-related activities. The theme of this session is “Elegant Evergreens.” Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $6/members; $7/non-mem-

bers; $5/vehicle. Registration required: onondagacountyparks.com.

THURSDAY, FEB. 8 See Library & Ongoing Events

FRIDAY, FEB. 9 See Library & Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, FEB. 10 TACNY Junior Cafe Scientifique. 9:30-11

a.m. This monthly program for middle school students features discussions about science, technology, engineering and mathematics with STEM professionals/academics. The topic for February is “Seizing the Sky: Controlling Aerodynamics” with Dr. Yiyang Sun. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free.

Registration required: most.org.

MACNY’s Future Women in STEM: Engineering. 10-11 a.m. Women from area

companies will guide attendees through a hands-on activity. This program is designed for girls in grades 6-8. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse.

Free. Registration required: most.org.

Make Your Own Valentine Workshop.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Children ages 4 and up can create an old-fashioned card. Oneida County History Center, 1608 Genesee St., Utica.

Free. (315) 735-3642. oneidacounty history.org.

Candlelight Hike. 6-8 p.m. Go on a

0.5-mile self-guided candlelit hike. When you’re done, stop by the shelter for refreshments and a children’s craft table. Selkirk Shores State Park, 7101 State Route 3, Pulaski. $5/snowshoe rental. parks.ny.gov/ events.

World Ballet Series: Swan Lake Performed with a Live Orchestra.

7 p.m. Enjoy a performance of Swan Lake, accompanied by music from the Clinton Symphony Orchestra of the Mohawk Valley. Stanley Center for the Arts, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $48.35-$118.80. thestanley.org.

SUNDAY, FEB. 11 See Library & Ongoing Events

MONDAY, FEB. 12 See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, FEB. 13 See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14

Storytime & Hike. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Each session will feature stories, songs and exploration. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 Route 80, Sherburne. Free. (607) 674-4733. friendsofrogers.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 15 Syracuse Auto Expo. 3-8 p.m. Hundreds

of vehicles in two buildings. Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $10/adults; $7/seniors; $3/ages 6-12; free/ages 5 and under. autoexposyracuse.com.

FRIDAY, FEB. 16 Syracuse Auto Expo. 3-8 p.m. Hundreds

of vehicles in two buildings. Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $10/adults; $7/seniors; $3/ages 6-12; free/ages 5 and under. autoexposyracuse.com.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17 Paw Patrol Live – The Great Pirate Adventure. 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Characters

from the popular Nickelodeon series stop in Syracuse. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $27.30-$146.05. landmarktheatre.org.

Syracuse Auto Expo. noon-8 p.m.

Hundreds of vehicles in two buildings.

Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $10/ adults; $7/seniors; $3/ages 6-12; free/ages 5 and under. autoexposyracuse.com.

Sensory Friendly Time. 4:30-8 p.m.

The museum turns down the noise, turns off the flashing lights, and makes other accommodations so people with sensory FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 19

CALENDAR processing challenges can explore the exhibits. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $5/non-members. (315) 425-9068. most.org.

Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Included with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Snowshoe rental: $5/person. (315) 638-2519. onondaga countyparks.com.

Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $6-$9. baltimorewoods.org.

Ithaca Ballet Winter Dance 2024. 7:30

SATURDAY, FEB. 24

he embarks on an unexpected adventure.

Stanley Center for the Arts, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $42.20-$83.85. thestanley.org.

p.m. Families can enjoy a performance by the Ithaca Ballet Company. Hangar Theatre, 801 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca. $20/adults; $10/children ages 12 and under. (607) 273-2787. hangartheatre.org.

SUNDAY, FEB. 18 Paw Patrol Live – The Great Pirate Adventure. 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. Characters

from the popular Nickelodeon series stop in Syracuse. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $27.30-$146.05. landmarktheatre.org.

Syracuse Auto Expo. noon-5 p.m.

Hundreds of vehicles in two buildings.

Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $10/ adults; $7/seniors; $3/ages 6-12; free/ages 5 and under. autoexposyracuse.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 19 See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, FEB. 20 See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21 See Library & Ongoing Events

THURSDAY, FEB. 22 Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing. 5-8:30 p.m.

Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon.

Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Included with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Snowshoe rental: $5/person. (315) 638-2519. onondaga countyparks.com.

FRIDAY, FEB. 23 Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

5-8:30 p.m. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake 20 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

Maple Magic. 10-11:30 a.m. Take a tour

of the sugarbush – and learn about the history of maple sugaring. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 Route 80, Sherburne. Free. Registration required: (607) 674-4733. friendsofrogers.org.

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

5-8:30 p.m. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Included with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Snowshoe rental: $5/person. (315) 638-2519. onondaga countyparks.com.

Shrek the Musical. 7 p.m. Join Shrek as

he embarks on an unexpected adventure.

Stanley Center for the Arts, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $42.20-$83.85. thestanley.org.

Owl Prowl: Stories of the Night. 7-9 p.m.

Attendees ages 10 and up will walk through Baltimore Woods, stopping along the way to call for owls and exchange stories.

Baltimore Woods

SUNDAY, FEB. 25 Shrek the Musical. 2 p.m. Join Shrek as

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

5-8:30 p.m. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Included with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Snowshoe rental: $5/person. (315) 638-2519. onondaga countyparks.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 26 See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, FEB. 27 See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 28 Storytime & Hike. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Each

session will feature stories, songs and exploration. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 Route 80, Sherburne. Free.

(607) 674-4733. friendsofrogers.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 29 See Library & Ongoing Events

These are just some of the family-friendly events in February.

For the full calendar, visit familytimescny.com/ things-to-do-in-Syracuse-NY.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NAC/FAMOUS ARTISTS

CALENDAR

LIBRARY EVENTS BALDWINSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville.

(315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

FRIDAY, FEB. 2

Parents’ Night Out

Drop in Art: Tube Shaker Instrument.

3-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

FRIDAY, FEB. 16 Drop in Art: Magnets. 3-4 p.m. All ages.

Free.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17 Dancing! Moving! Dance Class with Gail’s Little Dancing Pals. 11:30 a.m.-

12:30 p.m. 6 months-5 years. Free.

Registration required.

TUESDAY, FEB. 20 We’re Gonna Make It: Yarn Octopus.

4-5 p.m. Ages 12-15. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14

Clyde’s. 7:30 p.m.; also Feb. 2, 3, 4, 7

Valentine’s Day Yoga. 6:30 p.m.

8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17 & 18. Syracuse Stage continues its 50th anniversary season with the “dramedy” Clyde’s.

Syracuse Stage, 820 Genesee St., Syracuse. $30-$65. syracusestage.org.

Hairspray. 7:30 p.m.; also Feb. 2 &

3. Join Broadway in Syracuse for its third show of the season, Hairspray.

The musical takes place in Baltimore in the 1960s, and follows the story of Tracy Turnblad, an aspiring dancer.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $44.70-$83.70. landmarktheatre.org.

Love and Laughter. 7-9 p.m. Visit

THURSDAY, FEB. 8

28. This production narrates the tale of Cher’s life. Stanley Center for the Arts, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $58.10$94.65. thestanley.org.

Chocolate Discovery presented

by Byrne Dairy & Deli. 6-8:15 p.m.

COMMUNITY LIBRARY OF DEWITT & JAMESVILLE 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6 Kids’ Maker Club: Kaleidoscope. 4-4:45

p.m. Grades K-5. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10 Fancy Tea Party. 2-3 p.m. All ages. Free.

Registration required.

Symphoria musicians perform during a guided yoga class. Afterwards, there will be sweet treats. Commonspace Montgomery, 320 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $50/person. experience symphoria.org.

Sample chocolates from Sweet on Chocolate and watch a Star-Crossed Lovers planetarium show. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $50/person; $80/couple. most.org/chocolate-discovery.

TUESDAY, FEB. 13 Cookie Decorating Class. 6-8 p.m.

Attendees can learn how to decorate cookies. Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. $35/person (non-members). romeart.org.

the museum for “a night filled with joy, romance, and endless giggles!”

Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $30/person. everson.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 27 The Cher Show. 7:30 p.m.; also Feb.

Have an event or an idea for Parents’ Night Out? Email courtneyk@familytimescny.com with more information.

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 21

CALENDAR TUESDAY, FEB. 13 Kids’ Maker Club: No-Sew Heart Pillow Craft. 4-4:45 p.m. Grades K-5. Free.

Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14 Valentine’s Day Craft. 2-4 p.m. All ages.

Free.

FRIDAY, FEB. 23 February Break Movie and Snacks.

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

Click here for more events

ELBRIDGE FREE LIBRARY

241 E. Main St., Elbridge. (315) 689-7111. elbridgelibrary.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 26 Homeschool Exploration Stations.

MONDAY, FEB. 5 Kids In Motion. 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also Feb.

12, 19 & 26. Ages 1-5. Free.

MONDAY, FEB. 19 Triviocity! Tween Trivia. 5-6 p.m. Ages

8-12. Free.

MONDAY, FEB. 26 Homeschool Hangout. 2-4 p.m. All ages.

Free.

Click here for more events

FAIRMOUNT COMMUNITY LIBRARY 406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse.

(315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 5 Spanish Valentine’s Day. 10:15-11 a.m.

All ages. Free. Registration required.

SUNDAY, FEB. 11 Nature Explorers at Shove Park.

2-3 p.m. Ages 4-12. Free. Registration recommended.

THURSDAY, FEB. 22 Pokémon Club. 5:30-7 p.m. Ages 7-11.

Free. Registration required.

22 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

10:15-11 a.m. Ages 5-12. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

LIVERPOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

(315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3 FAYETTEVILLE FREE LIBRARY 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

(315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Winter Carnival. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All ages.

Free.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10 Celebrate Women in STEM! 10-11 a.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3

Ages 6-11. Free. Registration required.

Pokémon TCG Tournament. 11 a.m.-1

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14

p.m. All ages. Free.

Toddler Valentine Celebration. 10-10:45

THURSDAY, FEB. 8

a.m. Children under age 5. Free.

Valentine Friendship Bracelets. 4:15-

TUESDAY, FEB. 20

5 p.m. Grades 3-6. Free. Registration required.

Fairy Tale STEAM – A New Bed for Goldilocks. 10-11 a.m. Grades K-2. Free.

THURSDAY, FEB. 15

Registration required.

String Pull Art. 4:15-5 p.m. Grades 3-6.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21

Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, FEB. 22 Dragon Eggs! 4:15-5 p.m. Grades 3-6.

Free. Registration required.

Shake it Up! Create Your Own Snow Globe. 1-2 p.m. Children above age 6.

Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

THURSDAY, FEB. 22 STEAM: Geo Flower Designs. 4:15-5 p.m.

Grades 3-6. Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

MANLIUS LIBRARY

1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius.

(315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

CALENDAR SATURDAY, FEB. 3 The Kid’s Table Presents: Snow Party. 10:30-11:30 a.m. All ages. Free.

Registration required.

THURSDAY, FEB. 8 Teen Craft House: Macramé Heart Coasters. 6:30-7:30 p.m.; also Jan. 25.

Teens. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17 Syracuse Stage Presents Commanding Space. 11 a.m.-noon. All ages. Free.

Registration required.

Click here for more events

10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 8 and under. Free.

Registration required.

Click here for more events

14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. (315) 6723661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org.

NOPL BREWERTON 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton.

(315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

Maxwell at the Canal. noon-2 p.m.

All ages. Free.

THURSDAY, FEB. 8

Drop in Valentine Crafts for Kids.

3-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, FEB. 20 Grades 5-9. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, FEB. 23 Mosaic Tile Craft. 1-3 p.m. Tweens and

MONDAY, FEB. 26 Bilingual Storytime. 5:30-6:30 p.m. All

ages. Free.

Click here for more events

Stories and Sundaes at Charlee’s.

Preschool Fair. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.

Tweens and Teens Creative Writing.

4:30-5:30 p.m. Tweens and teens. Free.

Registration required.

Click here for more events

NOPL NORTH SYRACUSE

100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse.

(315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6 Superhero Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages.

Free.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21 Kids Make: Polar Bear Crafts. 3:30-4:30

p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, FEB. 23 Kids Bake: Snowmen Treats. 2-3:30 p.m.

Ages 8-12. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, FEB. 27

4-4:30 p.m.; also Feb. 22. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10

p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14

teens. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3

Kids Make: Love Bug Crafts. 3:30-4:30

TUESDAY, FEB. 27

STEM Camp: Chemistry of Water in Brewerton. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; also Feb. 21.

MAXWELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14

NOPL CICERO

8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero.

(315) 699-2032. nopl.org.

Polar Bear Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages.

Free.

Click here for more events

FRIDAY, FEB. 23 Perler Bead Fun. 1-2 p.m. All ages. Free.

Registration required.

THURSDAY, FEB. 29 Grab and Go Teen Craft: Salt Shaker Snowman. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Grades 6-12.

Free. Registration required.

Click here for more events

MINOA LIBRARY

242 N. Main St., Minoa. (315) 656-7401. minoalibrary.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 17 Special Family Story Time: Silly Books.

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 23

CALENDAR ONONDAGA FREE LIBRARY 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse.

(315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 2 Family Play & Parent Meetup. 10-11:30

a.m.; also Feb. 9. 16 & 23. Ages 0-5. Free.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3 Junior Artist Club. 10-11 a.m. Ages 2-5.

Free. Registration required.

MONDAY, FEB. 5 Tiptoe into Tarot. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Grades

6-12. Free. Registration preferred.

TUESDAY, FEB. 20

Great Swamp Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota.

Free. (315) 697-2950. greatswamp conservancy.org.

Custom Book Binding. 1-4 p.m.; also

Feb. 21, 22 & 23. Grades 9-12. Registration required.

MONDAY, FEB. 26 Pokémon Trading Card Game. 6-7 p.m.

Grades 2-6. Free. Registration required.

ONGOING EVENTS

Click here for more events

SOULE BRANCH LIBRARY 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse.

(315) 435-5320. onlib.org.

FRIDAY, FEB. 2 LEGO Free Play. 1:30-4:30 p.m.; also Feb.

9, 16 & 23. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3 How to Draw Manga. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Tweens and teens. Free.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 7 Big Games Wednesday Afternoons.

1:30-5 p.m.; also Feb. 14, 21 & 28. All ages.

Free.

Click here for more events

24 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

Horsedrawn Sleigh Rides. Saturdays

and Sundays, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; through Feb. 25. A 20-minute ride into the woods.

Highland Forest Park, County Road 128, Fabius. $10/person; $free/under age 5.

Reservations required: (315) 225-3343.

Guided Snowshoe Hike. Saturdays

and Sundays, 2-3 p.m.; through Feb. 25.

Participants will go on a guided snowshoe hike with a naturalist. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Included with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Snowshoe rental: $5/person. Call at 8 a.m. the day of the hike to register and check conditions: (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to dusk. Throughout

the year, visitors can grab their walking shoes and explore about seven miles of well-groomed, flat trails. Trails feature a 900-foot boardwalk, osprey nesting platform, and wetland and grassland restoration areas. The area is a stop for many migratory waterfowl and songbirds; other wildlife include muskrats and beavers.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking

trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. (315) 673-1350. baltimore woods.org.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market.

Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round); Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (May through November only). Shop seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings, and home decor.

Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

2100 Park St., Syracuse. (315) 422-8647.

STORYTIMES Baldwinsville Public Library Storytimes. Drop in Storytime with

Mr. KC (ages 2-5): Mondays (except Feb. 19), 10:30-11 a.m. Read and Play

CALENDAR Storytime (ages 6-24 months): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Storytime with Ms. G and Ms. Jessie: Wednesdays, 9:30-10 a.m.

Storytime with Ms. Anna: Sundays, 1:302:30 p.m. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. Free.

Registration required for Storytime with Ms. G and Ms. Jessie: (315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville Storytimes. Babies and Books

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (DeWitt).

Elbridge Free Library Storytimes. Story

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (New Hartford). Saturday Storytime: Saturdays,

Fairmount Community Library Storytimes. Preschool Storytime (ages

Storytime with Miss Rachael: Thursdays, 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. (315) 449-2948. barnesand noble.com.

10:30 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 4811 Commercial Drive, New Hartford. Free.

(315) 768-1075. barnesandnoble.com.

Beauchamp Branch Library Storytimes.

Storytime (ages 3 and under): Wednesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3395. onlib.org.

(birth-18 months): Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Story Play (ages 0-5): Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays (except Feb. 1), 10:30-11:30 a.m. Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

Liverpool Public Library Storytimes.

Hour (ages 1-5): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Elbridge Free Library, 241 E. Main St., Elbridge. Free. (315) 689-7111. elbridge library.org.

0-5): Tuesdays, 10:15-11 a.m. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes.

11 a.m. Music & Movement (ages 0-6): Thursdays (Feb. 8 & 22), 10:30-11 a.m.

Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Registration required for Music & Movement: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Storytime and Craft (preschoolers): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Family Storytime (all ages): Thursdays (Feb. 1 & 15), 10:30-

Family Storytime (ages 0-5): Thursdays (except Feb. 22), 10-10:30 a.m. Baby Storytime (birth-18 months): Fridays (except Feb. 23), 10-10:45 a.m. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Manlius Library Storytimes. Jigglebugs

(toddlers and preschoolers): Mondays (except Feb. 19), 10:30-11 a.m. Toddler Storytime with Miss Karen (ages 0-3): Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime with Miss Karen (ages 2.5-5): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Family Storytime with Miss Windy: Wednesdays, 6:30-7 p.m. Manlius Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. (315) 6826400. manliuslibrary.org.

NATIONAL DAYS

FAMILY TIMES CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! LISTINGS ARE DUE BY FEB. 5 FOR THE MARCH ISSUE Send information about your family-friendly event to:

Family Times calendar, 9 Albany St., Suite 2e, Cazenovia; fax to (315) 422-1721; or email to courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

February Feb. 2: National Tater Tot Day Feb. 7: National Periodic Table Day Feb. 8: National Kite Flying Day Feb. 9: National Pizza Day Feb. 10: National Umbrella Day Feb. 14: National Ferris Wheel Day

Include date and time of event, location with numbered street address and town, price, and phone number for publication. We give priority to low- or no-cost events aimed at parents, kids, or parents accompanied by kids.

Feb. 17: National Random Acts of Kindness Day

For additional exposure:

Feb. 28: National Tooth Fairy Day

Upload your event to the community guide at communityguide.familytimescny.com.

Click on the FAQ tab for a video tutorial.

Feb. 20: National Muffin Day Feb. 27: National Polar Bear Day

Source: nationaldaycalendar.com

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024 | 25

CALENDAR Maxwell Memorial Library Storytimes.

Storytots Story Time (ages 0-3): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. Registration required: (315) 672-3661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org.

SCHOOL EVENTS

MOST Storytimes. STEM Storytime (ages

2-6): Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-noon. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse.

Free with admission: $12/adults; $10/ children (ages 2-11); $5/seniors (65+); free (under 2). (315) 425-9068. most.org.

NOPL Brewerton Storytimes. Story

Time: Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton.

(315) 676-7484. NOPL.org.

NOPL Cicero Storytimes. Family

Storytime: Thursdays (except Feb. 1), 1010:30 a.m. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. NOPL.org.

Click Here

Winter Activities Guide WINTER ACTIVITIES GUIDE SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

NOPL North Syracuse Storytimes.

SNOW TUBING CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING SNOWSHOEING

Storytime with Miss Sarah (preschoolers): Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. NOPL.org.

ICE SKATING HIKING SLEDDING SLEIGH RIDES LESSONS

Onondaga Free Library Storytimes.

Family Storytime (ages 2-5): Thursdays (except Feb. 29), 10-11 a.m. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

WINTER

ACTIVITIES GUIDE

Petit Branch Library Storytimes.

Read, Sing, and Play Storytime (ages 18 months-5 years): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m.

Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3636. onlib.org.

Baby Bounce & Rhyme (0-18 months): Wednesdays, 9:15-9:45 a.m. Read, Sing, Play Storytime (18 month-3 years): Wednesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Story Time for Bookworms (ages 2-5): Thursdays, 10:3011 a.m. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles. Free. (315) 685-5135. skanlibrary.org.

Soule Branch Library Storytimes. Lapsit

Storytime: Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. (315) 435-5320. onlib.org.

26 | FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2024

C

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

Skaneateles Library Storytimes.

entral New York has no shortage of outdoor activities during the winter months. These are some of the best places to hike, snowshoe, ice skate, and more.

16 | FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2024

Our annual guide includes everything from snow tubing to ice skating to indoor play spots (plus four indoor water parks your family should visit this year).

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OF THE MONTH

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OF THE MONTH EVERY MONTH @FAMILYTIMES

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