New Rochelle Library Plans Free Vacation Week Programs For Idle Hands

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Time away from the classroom doesn't have to mean too much screen time, thanks to our friends at the New Rochelle Public Library.

The main branch of the New Rochelle Public Library is offering a full slate of free programs for children during the New Rochelle school district's holiday break from December 26 - 30.

"We have a great lineup of vacation week programs planned for children and their families this year," Library Director Tom Geoffino said. "Our children’s librarians have put together a mix of entertaining activities that add even more fun to what the library already offers year-round. We're always working on new ways to make our patron’s time at New Rochelle Public Library even better. It's not just a place for books; it's a community hub where everyone can gather, connect, learn, and enjoy in a cozy and welcoming setting."

On Tuesday, December 26, from 10:30 a.m. - 11: 15 a.m., Snow Buddies Puppet Fun will delight children ages 2-5 and their caregivers with a winter wonderland of animal friends in a special snow-themed puppet performance. From 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., for children ages 2-12, it’s Let’s Go LEGOs, a free-build block party. Larger Duplo building blocks will also be provided for younger children.

On Wednesday, December 27, from 10:30 a.m. - noon, participants of all ages will delight in the story of the timeless classic "The Nutcracker" told through narration and dance. Families will enjoy hearing the story of Marie and her brave Nutcracker fighting the Mouse King and traveling to the Land of the Sweets. Children ages 3 to 12 will also have a chance to learn sections of dances with the performers. From 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., a Gingerbread House Workshop will give kids ages 5-12 an opportunity to build their own candy home with sweets and treats.

On Thursday, December 28, from 10 a.m. – noon, children ages 2-5 years will be able to visit Tiny Town: Winter Wonderland Edition, where they can pretend to play in the small city built just for them with unique seasonal activities included. At 2 p.m., Wondersparks Puppets will present "The Missing Creature." Children ages 3-6 will join detective Mystery Max as he searches for clues to find the creature — an animal with amazing abilities. The audience will sing songs and call out to help Max solve the case. Themes in this story include persisting through challenges, engaging in conversation and identifying and expressing emotions appropriately.

On Friday, December 29, from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Jack Frost: Snow Kidding!, will drum up holiday cheer in an engaging variety act for kids ages 3 to 11, featuring slapstick antics, cartoon-like sound effects, bubble play, musical bell chimes, adept magic, eye-popping puppetry, loads of madcap audience participation, occasional flurries and a minor indoor snowstorm. At 2 p.m., The Super Mario Bros Movie (PG, 92 min.) will be shown for Family Movie Day. Follow Mario on his adventures with his friends, Princess Peach and Toad, as they search for Mario's brother Luigi and hope to defeat the evil Bowser to save the Mushroom Kingdom from his destructive schemes.

On Saturday, December 30, from 11:15 a.m. - noon, for kids ages 2 to 6, it’s Noon Year’s Eve! Families can say goodbye to 2023 and hello to 2024 with a special storytime event to help little ones ring in the New Year… a little early. Festivities will include music, noisemaker and party hat crafts, balloons, a countdown to noon instead of midnight and more.

All programs are free and are first come, first served. All programs take place at the main branch of the New Rochelle Public Library, located at 1 Library Plaza in New Rochelle.