Artsy Things to Do With Kids This May

As the weather gets gradually nicer, parents and caretakers will be looking for things to do with kids, and Westchester arts groups have plenty on the calendar. ArtsNews has compiled a list of some of these offerings below, from theater productions to bubbles.

Things to Do With Kids: Libraries

One helpful option for things to do with kids are the local libraries, which consistently offer activities like storytime, crafts, summer reading programs, educational programs, author talks and more for children, teens and adults. To find these events, readers can check their local library. Readers are also encouraged to read about how to support local museums and libraries in light of the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, they can check this article and contact their elected officials.  

May 2-4
Beetlejuice Jr.
Presented by Irvington Theater
This family-friendly musical at Irvington Theater offers a fresh, humorous take on the cult classic film Beetlejuice. The Broadway Training Center of Westchester’s production, performed by a junior ensemble, features music and lyrics by Eddie Perfect along with a contemporary score.

May 3
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!
Presented by Emelin Theatre
On a list of things to do with kids, a Mo Willems’s beloved children’s book characters are one they are likely to recognize and love. This musical adaptation brings a theatrical twist to the adventures of “Pigeon.” The show, which is designed for audiences of all ages, combines a mix of songs, creative staging and interactive elements. There will two performances.

May 3
Family ArtsBash
Presented by ArtsWestchester
At this family-friendly event, kids can participate in hands-on arts workshops like felt flower-making and clay creations, get their faces painted, try their hand in interactive theater activities, watch ballet performances, meet artists in their studios, and more. It all takes place throughout ArtsWestchester’s landmark building in White Plains.

May 3-31 (Saturdays)
Children’s Art Workshops
Presented by Blue Door Art Center
Each Saturday in May, Blue Door Art Center is offering workshops that offer a creative space for children to engage in creative projects. With activities aimed at catering to different interests and abilities—including children with special needs—these Children’s Art Workshops encourage individual expression in a family-friendly environment.

May 4-25 (Sundays)
KinoKids: Flower Print Workshop
Presented by KinoSaito
Designed as a free drop-in program, the Flower Print Workshop invites children and families to use natural materials for the creation of colorful artworks that are inspired by the current installation Soli Pierce and Bruce Odland. The workshop runs on four Sundays in May (May 4, 11, 18, and 25) and is open to participants of all abilities.

May 4
Star Wars (A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi)
Presented by Jacob Burns Film Center
“May the fourth be with” fans of the iconic Star Wars franchise on Star Wars Day. In celebration, Jacob Burns Film Center will screen all three original Star Wars films on “May the Fourth.”. The event features a special viewing of Star Wars: A New Hope, followed by screenings of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Families are encouraged to show up in costume to receive a free small popcorn. Learn

May 4
Family Day: Art and Alchemy
Presented by Katonah Museum of Art
Families are invited to explore the intersections of science and artistic creativity at Family Day: Art and Alchemy. Featured artist Ali Banisadr leads guests through large-scale painting experiments, artist-led demonstrations, mixed-media creature sculpture sessions and guided family tours.

May 5
Stories & Scribbles
Presented by Pelham Art Center
Stories & Scribbles offers an art class designed for toddlers and their caretakers. This creative session begins with reading a beloved children’s book, followed by a hands-on art project that encourages self-expression and imaginative exploration. Toddlers aged two-to-three are welcome, with one adult required for every two children.

May 17
Bubble Extravaganza
Presented by Hudson River Museum
Celebrate the arrival of spring at the Bubble Extravaganza, a free outdoor event in the museum’s courtyard. Families can enjoy giant bubbles, flying kites, and outdoor lawn games such as cornhole, giant Jenga, and lawn bowling.

May 17
Community Day
Presented by The Pocantico Center
Families are invited to experience the third annual Community Day at the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center. This free event offers things to do with kids, like hands-on art, STEAM and garden activities, face painting, and an interactive puppet performance by the Arm-of-the-Sea theater company. The gallery will also be open so guests can view the center’s Sketching Light: Windows for Union Church exhibition on its closing day.

May 17
Maker Weekend
Presented by Westchester Children’s Museum
Maker Weekend is an immersive two-day STEAM event that offers many things to do with kids during their visit. Children participate in a host of hands-on activities. Visitors can explore “magnetic motion” to see objects levitate, interact with coding robotic critters, design cardboard bridges that test structural principles, create kinetic balance sculptures using everyday items, construct “math marble machines” and learn hot glue safety.

You May Also Enjoy

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• Here’s Where to Contact Congress to Keep Museums and Libraries Funded
• 2025 Film Festivals in Westchester

Photos: Top: ArtsWestchester’s Family ArtsBash; Hudson River Museum’s Bubble Extravaganza