Extracurricular Activities from A to Z

Find activities that are right for your child by exploring our comprehensive list.

By Stacey Feintuch

Extracurricular activities are important for kids. They help younger ones explore their interests, talents, and passions as they build teamwork and problem-solving skills. Plus, taking part is a way to make new friends, and build upon existing friendships. For the older set, extracurricular activities can be interesting (and good to have for college applications!).

It can be overwhelming to choose one or two activities, especially if your child is unsure how they like to spend their time. Below are tons of ideas to inspire you and your child to take advantage of free hours after school. See if your child has tried something that’s on the list or if something new is appealing.

AFFINITY GROUPS

These groups allow kids to meet with others whose identity is just like theirs. Groups are out there for those who identify as LGBTQ+, persons of color, or certain ethnicities like Greek or Irish. These groups can provide a safe space for your child and provide service activities.

MEDIA

For kids who love communication, media-oriented activities might be up their alley. They may want to join a group focused on print media, websites, or broadcasting. Exploring these areas can help them learn new technology, and create and build a portfolio for college applications and jobs.

• School or local film projects • School or local magazine/journal • School or local newspaper • School literary publication • School or local radio station • School or local television channel • School or local website • Yearbook committee

MUSIC

For the musically inclined, opportunities like playing an instrument or singing in school or in the community can nurture their talents.

• Chorus/choir at school, in the community, or with a religious organization • Chamber music group • Concert band • Ensembles • Instrument lessons • Jazz band • Marching band • Orchestra • Singing lessons • Start their own band

PERFORMING ARTS

If you have an aspiring thespian in the house, performing arts may be a good fit. They can try out for plays, or if they prefer to stay out of the spotlight, work behind the scenes making costumes or building sets.

• Comedy club • Choreography • Film club • Miming • Puppetry • Theater group at school or in community

POLITICAL INTEREST AND SPEECH

Some clubs and teams are intellectual. Kids who like to keep up with current events might like debate or political clubs. Student council may be a good choice for those interested in weighing in on school decisions that impact them.

• Debate club • Foreign affairs club • Forensics team • Mock trial club • Model Congress club • Model United Nations • Political affiliation club • Student government/council

SPECIAL INTERESTS

If you and your child can’t find a club for their interests, help your child start one or join a group online.

• Boy Scouts • Chess club • Entrepreneurship club • Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) • Girl Scouts • Horticulture • Model railroads • Quilt making

STEAM PROGRAMS

If your home is filled with LEGO creations, STEAM programs may be a good fit. These activities are based in science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

• Coding • Engineering club • Math club • Robotics • Video game development

SPORTS

Kids can participate in sports teams at school, through your town, or join travel club teams. They can start as early as toddler and preschool years and play in middle school or high school.

• Baseball and softball • Basketball • Bodybuilding • Cheerleading • Climbing • Cycling • Dance • Fencing • Football • Golf • Gymnastics • Horseback riding • Hiking • Hockey • Ice-skating • Lacrosse • Martial arts • Ping-pong • Skateboarding • Skiing • Soccer • Swimming • Tennis • Track and field • Volleyball • Water polo • Yoga

Gtec Kids

Scarsdale/Larchmont vicinity 914-246-2806 gteckids.com • andistix@gmail.com

Does your child like to design, build, and invent things? Gtec Kids is an after-school, creative arts and science center for gifted and talented students (second-sixth grades). Our warm and nurturing, interactive classroom experiences promote higher-level thinking and creative problem solving through project-based learning in a fun and creative way.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School

25 School Lane, Scarsdale 914-723-1169 hbms.org • hb@hbms.org

Westchester’s premier music school offers lessons and classes for all ages from 9 months to adult. Students receive a comprehensive music education that includes private lessons, theory classes, ensemble instruction, and numerous performance opportunities with professional accompaniment in a supportive, joyful learning environment. Flexible tuition structure. Financial aid available.

Kids’ B.A.S.E. & The Little School

307 Mamaroneck Road, Scarsdale 914-472-5409 • kbls.org

Kids’ B.A.S.E. & The Little School encompass before- and after-school programs for school-age children in the Scarsdale public schools, and preschool (ages 2-5). The Little School provides Breakfast Club, extended day program until 6:30pm, enrichments, and sports. The Little School is licensed by NYS OCFS and accredited by NAEYC.

Musical Munchkins

167 Scarsdale Road, Tuckahoe 914-771-7000 • musicalmunchkins.com

Musical Munchkins has been sharing music and movement for almost 40 years! After a year on Zoom, it’s time to return to our locations. With our joyful musical activities, we return to in-person and some outdoor classes this September. Nurturing teachers engage you and your children in happy, upbeat classes.

New Rochelle Racquet Club at Pine Brook Fitness

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1003 pinebrookfitness.com/nrrc-home

Keep your kids active and having fun after school at the New Rochelle Racquet Club at Pine Brook Fitness. NRRC offers a pathway of tennis programs (ages 3 and older) for beginners just starting out all the way to players ready for tournament level play. Join the tennis community!

Ninja Gymnastics Factory

420 W. 238th St., at West 238th Street and Irwin Avenue, Riverdale Area of the Bronx 914-343-3903 ninjagymnasticsfactory.com info@ninjagymnasticsfactory.com

Ninja Gymnastics Factory is a newly renovated, children’s fun, fitness facility. We have programs for all ages, from toddlers to teens, including gymnastics and ninja classes, camps, birthday parties, grown-up and me, drop-in workshops, and community events. Our unique space and flexible scheduling guarantee we’ll have something for you.

The Rock Club at Pine Brook Fitness

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-633-7625 pinebrookfitness.com/the-rock-club

Whether you are new to climbing or a seasoned after-school pro, young climbers will discover adventure at The Rock Club. Our after-school programs not only teach the basics of rock climbing, they also promote confidence, focus, team building, and general fitness. All ages and skill levels are welcomed.

Sportime USA

380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 sportimeusa.com

Sportime USA is the ideal place to visit after school! With a restaurant on the premises, and activities for all ages including a Superfly Thrill Ride, four-dimensional motion theater, laser tag, rock-climbing wall, a Ballocity Arena, batting cages, bumper cars, Himalaya coaster, kiddie rides, video and prize ticket games, billiards, and soft-adventure play area.

Steffi Nossen School of Dance

216 Central Park Ave., White Plains 914-328-1900 steffinossen.org

We are back live in the studio wearing masks and following safety precautions. Since 1937 our nurturing, engaging environment develops dancers’ strength and coordination, builds confidence, and encourages creativity. To learn about classes in modern, ballet, tap, hip-hop, creative movement, adaptive, and kids musical theater, check our website, call, or email.

Studio B Dance Center

277 White Plains Road (entrance on Prospect Avenue), Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com

The award-winning studio offers classes seven days a week for children ages 2 and older. Convenient classes for siblings and a wide range of styles make this studio a favorite dance destination for busy families. “We don’t teach kids to make great dancers, we teach dance to make great kids.”

Super Soccer Stars x Pro Soccer Kids

More than 80 locations across NYC, LI, and Westchester 606 Columbus Ave., at 89th St., Manhattan 212-877-7171 55 Front St., Suite 7, Rockville Centre 516-740-7171 newyork.supersoccerstars.com info@supersoccerstars.com

Soccer Stars is NY’s No. 1 youth soccer program for more than 20 years. Certified coaches lead small group classes, promote teamwork, offer individual attention, follow safety guidelines. Parent & me, FUNdamentals, development training, multi-sport, and scrimmage games programs. Private classes available. Ages 1-12 and older. Save $25 – Code: NYMP21.

Westchester Gymnastics & Cheer

5 Skyline Drive, Hawthorne 914-592-2324 westchestergymnastics.net tara@westchestergymnastics.net

The most experienced program in Westchester (49 years running) for all ages and abilities. Our programs teach the fundamentals of the sport while developing coordination, flexibility, strength, and self-confidence. We have a thriving program for competitive gymnasts striving to reach their highest potential too!

At Whitby, there is no ceiling on learning. Each student is challenged to achieve their personal best, helping them to de ne success on their own terms. Come see for yourself.

Fall Virtual Admissions Events

Early Childhood Exploration October 7 All School Open House October 23 Middle School Exploration October 27 All School Open House November 18

whitbyschool.org/thinkwhitby2021

Co-ed Independent School Whitby Montessori Children’s House | 18 mos – Kindergarten International Baccalaureate | Grades 1 – 8 969 Lake Avenue, Greenwich CT 203.302.3900 | whitbyschool.org

Calendar SEPTEMBER

LEGO Ninjago 10th Anniversary Event

WHEN: Through Sept. 19: Monday-Friday 12-5:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers AGES: 4-11 WHAT: Celebrate 10 years of Ninjago with limited time experiences! WANT TO GO? $24.99 and up. 844-740-9223. legolanddiscoverycenter.com.

Labor Day Weekend Fireworks FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 3, 9:30pm WHERE: New Rochelle City Hall, 515 North Ave., New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Kick off Labor Day weekend with a fireworks display. WANT TO GO? 914-654-2091. newrochelleny.com.

Wakanda 4Ever Outdoor Celebration: Community, Culture & African Pride FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 4, 10am-10pm WHERE: Luangisa African Gallery, 374 Hawthorne Terrace, Mount Vernon AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the culture and pride of Africa. WANT TO GO? 914-664-3681. eventbrite.com.

Annual Oktoberfest

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 5, 12pm to sundown WHERE: Kolping on Hudson, 95 Montrose Point Road, Montrose AGES: All WHAT: Bring your family for a day of fun, food, and festivities. WANT TO GO? $10; $8 members; $5 pool pass. 914-736-0117. kolpingny.org.

Yorktown Grange Fair

WHEN: Sept. 10-12, Friday, 4-11pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Yorktown Grange Fair Grounds, 99 Moseman Road, Yorktown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy the sights of the midway, the tastes and smells of the delicious food, the sounds of fun, and great entertainment. WANT TO GO? $10 per carload; $5 for individuals. 914-9623900. yorktowngrangefair.org.

10th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2021 FREE

WHEN: Sept. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Harbor Point Boardwalk, 1 Harbor Point Road, Stamford, CT AGES: All WHAT: This event features a Kids Zone, Pet Wellness Zone, and a wide variety of exhibitors. WANT TO GO? 203-531-3047. hwl-expos.com.

Fall Crafts at Lyndhurst

WHEN: Sept. 17-19, Friday and Sunday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Lyndhurst, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy food tastings, craft demos, and family activities! WANT TO GO? $12; $11 seniors; $4 children ages 6-16; free for children younger than 6. 845-331-7900. artrider.com.

12th Annual Hudson Valley Irish Fest

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 25, 11am-7pm WHERE: River Front Green Park, 1 S. Division St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the rich Irish-American heritage of the Hudson Valley with music, dance performances, food, and more! WANT TO GO? $10 suggested donation; free for ages 12 and younger. hudsonvalleyirishfest.com.

Kusama: Cosmic Nature

WHEN: Through Oct. 31: Tuesday-Sunday, and Monday federal holidays, 10am-6pm WHERE: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: See spectacular installations featuring Yayoi Kusama’s multifaceted art, including monumental floral sculptures. WANT TO GO? $4-$28. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

WHEN: Sept. 9-19, Sept. 9 and Friday-Sunday, gates open at 6pm, show begins at 8pm WHERE: Quassy Amusement & Waterpark, 2132 Middlebury Road, Middlebury, CT AGES: All WHAT: See a fantastic laser light show set up in a drive-in atmosphere. WANT TO GO? $25 per carload (pre-sale ticketing only). 203759-2013. quassy.com.

For the

WHOLE FAMILY

Movies on the Lawn: Jumanji: The Next Level (2019) FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 6, 7pm WHERE: Ridge Hill, 1 Ridge Hill Blvd., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Arrive early for food trucks, fun, and games then settle in for the movie. WANT TO GO? 914-207-2900. ridgehill.com.

Marine Life Encounter Cruises

WHEN: Through Sept. 6: Wednesday-Sunday, 1:15pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Meet an amazing variety of fish, crabs, mollusks, and other creatures brought up right out of Long Island Sound right before your eyes. WANT TO GO? $32.50; $27.50 members. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Barefoot Dancing FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 9, 5:30-7pm WHERE: The Van Cortlandt House Museum, 6036 Broadway, enter the park at Broadway and West 246th Street, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Kick off your shoes and dance on the lawn of the Van Cortlandt House Museum. WANT TO GO? 718-601-1553. eventbrite.com.

Screenings Under the Stars: Soul

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 10, gates open 6:30pm; film begins at dusk WHERE: Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Ave., Croton-on-Hudson AGES: All WHAT: Pack up the family car and head out to see Soul! WANT TO GO? $25 per car. 914-995-2000. parks.westchestergov.com.

Public Meditation: Sept. 11th 20th Anniversary FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 11, 12-2pm WHERE: Pelham Art Center, 155 5th Ave., Pelham AGES: All WHAT: Visitors are invited to participate in a silent group meditation memorializing 9/11 and all those whose lives are lost and affected. WANT TO GO? 914-738-2525. pelhamartcenter.org.

Songs of the Labor Movement FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 4, 1pm WHERE: St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, 897 S. Columbus Ave., Mount Vernon AGES: All WHAT: Singer Linda Russell chronicles the history of the labor movement through song, in recognition of Labor Day weekend. WANT TO GO? 914-667-4116. nps.gov.

WHEN: Sept. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-7pm WHERE: City Island Chamber of Commerce, 280 City Island Ave., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Discover new vendors selling everything from art to clothes, get your face painted, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-885-9100. cityislandchamber.org.

Riverfest FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 18, 12-7pm WHERE: Yonkers Downtown BID, 1 Larking Plaza, Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Riverfest is a great time to gather with friends and family, listen to music from every era, and sample delicious foods. WANT TO GO? 914-969-6660. yonkersriverfest.org.

Smithsonian Museum Day Live! FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 18, 12:15pm, 1:15pm, 2:15pm, and 3:15pm WHERE: Bartow-Pell Mansion, 895 Shore Road, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Explore the mansion, carriage house, and grounds on guided tours during Smithsonian Museum Day. WANT TO GO? 718-885-1461. bartowpellmansionmuseum.org.

Afro-Rican Drumming with BombaYo! FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 18, 12-2pm WHERE: Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Ave., Pelham AGES: All WHAT: Follow along as Dr. Drum leads the community in a Bomba music celebration. WANT TO GO? 914-738-2525. pelhamartcenter.org.

New Rochelle Street Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 19, 11am-5pm WHERE: New Rochelle City Hall, 515 North Ave., New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: The fair is a fun-filled festival with artists, crafters, entertainment, and an assortment of international foods. WANT TO GO? 914-654-2091. newrochelleny.com.

8th Annual Kisco 5K & Kids Mad Dash

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 19, 8:30am 5K; 9:30am Kids Mad Dash WHERE: Kisco Run, Kirby Plaza, Mount Kisco AGES: All WHAT: It will be a great day to run, eat, and shop local. WANT TO GO? $25 before Sept. 1; $30 after Sept. 1; $35 day of race; free for Kids Mad Dash. kiscorun.com.

34th season of Downtown Music Concerts FREE

WHEN: Sept. 15-29, Wednesdays, 12:10pm WHERE: Grace Episcopal Church, 33 Church St., White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Come out for free, noontime concerts live at Grace Church. WANT TO GO? dtmusic.org.

New York Renaissance Faire

WHEN: Through Oct. 3: Saturday-Sunday and Labor Day, 10am-7pm WHERE: New York Renaissance Faire Grounds, 600 Route 17A, Tuxedo AGES: All WHAT: Travel back in time to an age of adventure to cheer for your favorite knight, meet Robin Hood, see amazing acrobats, and more! WANT TO GO? $175 season pass; $29.95; $13 ages 5-12; free for children younger than 5. 845-351-5171. renfair.com/ny.

Screenings Under the Stars: Mulan (2020)

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 24, gates open at 6:30pm; film begins at dusk WHERE: Tibbetts Brook Park, 355 Midland Plaza, Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Pack up the family car for a screening of Mulan (2020)! WANT TO GO? $25. 914-995-2000. parks.westchestergov.com.

Marvelous Metamorphoses: An Outdoor Performance

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 25, 11am-12pm WHERE: Greenwich Audubon Center, 613 Riversville Road, Greenwich, CT AGES: All WHAT: Take a journey through the life cycles of frogs, butterflies, and bees in this unique performance. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 203-869-5272. greenwich.audubon.org.

Worldly Explorations with Yanyi!

WHEN: Sept. 4-25, Saturdays, 2:30-3pm WHERE: Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye AGES: All WHAT: Yanyi shares her love of reading and her curiosity about the many diverse cultures of our world, both local and global through story books. WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $9; $8 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 914-420-5050. discoverwcm.org.

WHEN: Sept. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Quassy Amusement & Waterpark, 2132 Middlebury Road, Middlebury, CT AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy live music, food, beverages, and more! WANT TO GO? Admission is free; costs vary for food, beverages, rides, attractions, parking. 203-759-2013. quassy.com.

Horah with the Torah FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 28, 4pm WHERE: Chabad of the Rivertowns, 303 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Simchat Torah with a parade, cupcake decorating for kids up to 7 years old, games, and more. WANT TO GO? 914-693-6100. chabadrt.org.

Latin Dance Family Workshop FREE

WHEN: Sept. 16-Oct. 14, Thursdays, 6:30pm WHERE: Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave., Ossining AGES: All WHAT: Learn various dances that celebrate the Latin culture such as salsa, merengue, and bachata. WANT TO GO? 914-941-2416. ossininglibrary.org.

Family Walk: Butterflies and Blooms

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 25, 1-2pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Go on an expedition to find colorful butterflies and their favorite flowers. WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $10; $6 students and seniors 65 and older; $4 children 6 and older; free for members. 718-549-3200 x251. wavehill.org.

Great for

Elementary-Age Kids

Annie Kids

WHEN: Aug. 27-Sept. 3, Fridays, 4:30pm WHERE: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: See everyone’s favorite little redhead live on stage! WANT TO GO? $16. 914-328-1600. wppac.com.

Bring the Kids Goes Outside: Happy 60th!

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 4, 9:30am and 1:30pm WHERE: Boscobel House, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Boscobel’s 60th and solve a mystery. WANT TO GO? $15; $8 children ages 5-18; free for children younger than 5. 845-265-3638. boscobel.org.

Dancing Caravan at White Plains Jazzfest

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 11, 4:30pm WHERE: White Plains Plaza, 1 N. Broadway, White Plains AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy a three-course menu and performances of Peter and The Wolf and Dance Jazz Mosaic. WANT TO GO? $58; $29 ages 5-12. 914-328-5166. wpbid.com.

Run Wild

WHEN: Sept. 25-Oct. 3, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Run Wild is a kid’s forest run and obstacle course where your child can enjoy some friendly competition while getting active out in nature. WANT TO GO? $20. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Family Adventure Tours

WHEN: Through Sept. 26: Sundays, 10-11am WHERE: Untermyer Gardens, 945 N. Broadway, Yonkers AGES: 7-12 WHAT: Weekly rotation of 3 different tours of different parts of the gardens, emphasizing mythology, archaeology, history, unusual trees and plants, graffiti, waterfalls. WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 2 and accompanying adults. 914 613-4502. untermyergardens.org.

Fairy Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 26, 12-3pm WHERE: Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: See the magical world of fairies during this fairythemed scavenger hunt. Costumes are encouraged! WANT TO GO? 914-864-7282. muscootfarm.org.

Just for

Younger Kids

Bruce Beginnings: Eagles

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 31, 11-11:45am and 1-1:45pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich, CT AGES: 2½-5 WHAT: Children and their caregivers are encouraged to explore the museum’s collections and exhibitions through picture books and hands-on activities. WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $10; $8 students with valid ID and seniors ages 65 and older; free for members and children younger than 5. 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Rock and Roll for Little Ones FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 27, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: John C. Hart Library, 1130 E. Main St., Shrub Oak AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hear everything from kids’ classics such as “Twinkle, Twinkle” to The Beatles, Chuck Berry, and other rock favorites. WANT TO GO? 914-245-5262. yorktownlibrary.org.

Virtual Open House

September 22, 2021 at 3 pm Register at GISNY.ORG/admissions

GET TO KNOW OUR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

sportimeusa.com 914.592.2111

380 N Saw Mill River Road • Elmsford

Established in 1980, German International School New York, an independent Pre-K through Grade 12 college preparatory program, is celebrating 41 years of academic excellence.

Our German-English bilingual education and rigorous academics with an emphasis on science and math cultivate students to develop into curious, analytical, and conscientious global citizens. We are the only school in the tristate area, where graduates earn the NYS High School Diploma and the German International Abitur, a globally recognized diploma, which gives access to universities worldwide. This fall, we have introduced our new Nature-Based Early Childhood Educational (NBECE) Program for students in Pre-K and Kindergarten. The nature program supports the development of children’s cognitive growth and their long-term academic success.

Children entering our Pre-K or Kindergarten programs are not required to speak or understand German and will build the foundation of being bilingual by first grade. All nationalities are welcome!

Not only our youngest students are taking advantage of our beautiful 20 acres campus, but all grades are being taught and are spending as much time as possible outside.

Let’s Go Apple Picking!

These are the top spots to pick your own apples in our area.

By Alison Leighton

When September rolls around, I get excited about one big thing (no, not back-to-school season…): apple picking season! The fall brings us cute boots and sweaters, preparing to cozy up by a fire, and pick-your-own apples! I also think a trip to the farm isn’t complete without a cup of delicious apple cider, followed by homemade treats (I’m looking at you, apple cider doughnuts!) to show the fruits of our labor (ha!). If you’re ready for apples galore, then check out these farms and orchards. Your family will have a blast picking fresh fruit and checking out the activities offered at each place, such as petting zoos and corn mazes.

A few things to keep in mind: Opening seasons are approximate as of the writing of this article since crops are based on weather conditions. Always check the farm’s website or call ahead to confirm availability and COVID-19 guidelines given the ever-changing conditions. And don’t forget proper footwear as fields can be muddy or have uneven ground. Most farms don’t allow pets or picnicking (or any outside food, for that matter).

WESTCHESTER COUNTY

Harvest Moon Farm and Orchards

130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com 914-485-1210

Hours: Pick-your-own apples available by reservation. Apple picking season begins in September, exact hours are TBD. Farm store: Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm (April-December) Cost: $10 parking, $25 for a peck size bag. Reservations required online; sign-up mid- to end of August. Pick-your-own apples are available September-October. And that’s just the start of the fun at this farm! You can buy pasture-raised, hormone-free organic meats and dairy at the farm store, as well as local maple syrup, seasonal flowers, and veggies. It hosts seasonal events as well, including a Fall Festival every weekend from Labor Day to Halloween.

Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm

1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights wilkensfarm.com • 914-245-5111

Hours: Farm: Wednesday-Monday, late August to mid-December; pick-your-own: daily, 10am-4:30pm when fruit is in season. Apple picking anticipated to start in early September; see website for updates. Cost: Prices were not announced as of press; check website for updates. Note: You will have to pay for a minimum quantity based on your party size.

Here you’ll find a variety of pick-your-own options, including apples in September. Just make sure to call before visiting to confirm the availability. Picking poles are available to rent to help you reach for the higher apples (there is a rental fee). You can take a hay wagon to that week’s picking orchard, which your children will love! (Note: The wagon ride may not be available due to COVID-19.) Plus, the Farm Market, Country Market, and Bakery are open daily, 10am-5pm. You can take home freshly baked pies, apple cider, apple cider doughnuts, and other treats. And your kids will have a blast in the corn maze, which is open all season.

Outhouse Orchards

139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem outhouseorchardsny.com • 914-277-3188

Hours: PYO hours and reservations not available at time of press; check website. Cost: Pre-pay $30 for a small bag (15lbs) or $45 for a large bag (25lbs). Take in the beautiful fall foliage as you stroll through these orchards. September and October will be full of apple picking—and there are pole pickers to borrow for the hard-to-reach spots. Don’t forget to visit the corn maze ($10 per person; free for children younger than 5 with adult). You’ll love taking the hayride with breathtaking views. And your family will love the farm stand, which sells doughnuts, pies, and more.

ROCKLAND COUNTY

Orchards of Concklin

2 S. Mountain Road (off Route 45), Pomona (for GPS use 1010 Route 45, Pomona) orchardsofconcklin.com 845-354-0369

Hours: Pick-your-own apples projected to start Sept. 11; store: daily, 9am-5pm Cost: half-peck bag is $13 per person Not only are you able to come enjoy apple picking, but the orchard also has a farm stand featuring fresh-pressed apple cider and a delicious bakery filled with

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ

Demarest Farms

244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale demarestfarms.com • 201-666-0472

Hours: PYO apples begins Sept. 4: Thursday-Monday, 8am-5pm Cost: $7 ages 2 and older; $14 for a bag to hold the apples you pick (10-12lbs.) This farm has it all: PYO, a petting zoo, Halloween lights, and more. When you’re done picking, check out the farm store with a bakery, cider, and fresh produce. All PYO activities require advanced, online reservations. Visits will be limited to your reservation time; late arrivals must leave at the end of the reservation time.

Alison Leighton, a freelance writer and marketing specialist, is the founder of Social Parent NYC—@SocialParentNYC on Facebook and Instagram—which hosts events for parents and their babies/toddlers. She lives in Westchester County with her husband and son.

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