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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Dec 28 - Jan 3

12/27/2017

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Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of December 28, 2017 - January 3, 2018! Happy New Year, everyone!!!

​Don't forget to 
sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadlines.
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ONGOING:
  • NYC Learn to Swim Lottery Registration Open (register Dec 23 - 30 for Winter Session held Jan 8 - Mar 22)
  • School Year Camp (Half & Full Day) @ Bounce U @ Dec 26 - 29
  • Free demo week at Music Together (January 3 - 13)
  • Apply to Kindergarten by January 12 (children born in 2013)


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28:
  • "Foxy Winter Delight" Pizza & Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • Teen Time: Personalize It! @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Chess @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29:
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • "The Majestic One" Pizza & Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 11:30 - 2
  • Family Movie: Leap! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5


SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30:
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • "I Wish I May" Family Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • Family DJ Dance Party: New Year's Jazz @ Industry City (274 36th St, Courtyard 1/2) @ 12:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:15
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31:
  • New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Parade @ CMOM @ 12, 2, & 4
  • Dinner & Balloon Drop @ UNO's @ 5 & 7 (RSVP required)
  • New Year's Eve Celebration @ Coney Island @ 9pm - 12am
  • New Year's Even Fireworks @ Prospect Park @ 10:30pm - 12:30am
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MONDAY, JANUARY 1:
  • ​​Happy New Year!! Alternate Side Parking Suspended​​
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 2:
  • NYC Public Schools back in session
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • ​​BYOBaby Play Date New Year's Party @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Teen Manga Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Child & Parent Yoga @ Raine & Riley's @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Zen Kid's Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:15 - 6:45

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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: December 21 - 27

12/20/2017

1 Comment

 
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Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of December 21 - 27, 2017! Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadlines.
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ONGOING:​​​​​​
  • ​NYC Learn to Swim Lottery Registration Open (register Dec 23 - 30 for Winter Session held Jan 8 - Mar 22)
  • School Year Camp (Half & Full Day) @ Bounce U @ Dec 26 - 29
  • Apply to Kindergarten by January 12 (children born in 2013)


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21:
  • Work While They Play (shared work space with child care in play gym) @ Play Days & Parties @ 9 - 10:30
  • Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:15 - 12:15
  • Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • Teen Time: Create with Clay @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Solstice Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Chess @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • The Nutcracker @ Fort Hamilton High @ 7 (tickets $10)

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22:
  • Last day of school before Winter Break (12/25 - 1/1)
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 6
  • Kids' Karaoke @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Tot Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 5:30
  • Parents Night Out - "Boss Baby" @ Bounce U @ 6:30 - 9

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23:
  • Winter Session NYC Learn to Swim Lottery Registration Opens
  • ​Brunch with Santa @ Aviator Sports @ 9 - 11
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Snowman's Best Friend" Family Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • Family DJ Dance Party: Afrobeat @ Industry City (220 36th St, Courtyard 1/2) @ 12:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:15
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • ​A Christmas Carol @ Christ Church of Bay Ridge @ 7

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24:
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11


MONDAY, DECEMBER 25:
  • MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
  • Alternate Side Parking Suspended
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26:
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30​
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • CANCELLED!!! BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center
  • Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY for teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • ​Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • "Winter Emojis" Pizza & Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4:30
  • Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Zen Kid's Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:15 - 6:45
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1 Comment

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: December 14 - 20

12/13/2017

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Bay Ridge Families' weekly kids' events roundup for the week of December 14 - 20, 2017
Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of December 14 - 20, 2017! Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadlines.
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ONGOING:​​​​
  • Toy Drive @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center (new, unwrapped toys for any age) through Dec 15
  • Bay Ridge Cares' Pajama Drive, through December 15
  • Gingerbread House Classes for kids & adults @ Sugar Coated Bakery
  • Parents of District 21 elementary or middle schoolers, apply for a Community & Citywide Education Council seat by Dec 20
  • Register for Brunch with Santa at Aviator Sports (event on Dec 23 @ 9am)
  • Apply to Kindergarten by January 12 (children born in 2013)


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14:
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  • Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • Mailbox Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Teen Time: Dye + Milk= Magic @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • T(w)een Book Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Chess @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 6
  • Family Gaming Night @ Sunset Park Library @ 5:30 - 7
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15:
  • Christmas Fair (with Santa) @ Visitation Academy @ 9 - 3:30
  • Chinese Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 6
  • Game On! Wii & PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Gingerbread Party @ The Art Room @ 6 - 8 (sold out)
  • Parent's Night Out Drop-Off (The LEGO Batman Movie) @ Bounce U @ 6:30 - 9
  • BrooklynOne Christmas Concert @ St. Phillip's @ 8 - 11
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16:
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • 5th Ave Holiday Shopping & Trolley with Santa @ 5th Ave between 65th - 85th Street @ 12 - 4
  • Family DJ Dance Party: Music of Elton John @ Industry City (220 36th St, Courtyard 1/2) @ 12:30
  • Gingerbread House Workshop @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 1 - 2
  • Pictures with Santa Paws @ Vinny's Pet Shop @ 2 - 5
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:15
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • Saturday Storytime: Arabic Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • Gingerbread House Workshop @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 4 - 5
  • Parents' Survival Night Drop Off @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 8
  • Bay Ridge Christmas Concert @ St. Pat's @ 8 - 11
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17:
  • Brunch with Santa @ Aviator Sports @ 9 & 12 (both sold out)
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11
  • Breakfast with Santa @ IHOP of Coney Island @ 10
  • ​Cookie Exchange @ Play Days & Parties @ 12 - 3
  • Brunch With Santa @ Brooklyn Firefly @ 1 - 3
  • Bay Ridge Ballet's The Nutcracker @ Our Lady of Angels @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Saint-Saëns’s Oratorio de Noël, Vivaldi's Winter & Gloria @ Union Church of Bay Ridge @ 4 - 5:30
  • Hanukkah Party @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 4 - 6
  • Triple Threat's Nutcracker @ Bishop Ford @ 4:30
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 18:
  • Miss Karen's Reading & Literacy Class @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Chinese Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Holiday Singalong @ The Coop @ 11
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 6
  • Christmas Arts & Crafts @ Mapleton Library @ 3 - 4
  • Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Kids Create @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Building w/ LEGO Mindstorm @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Chess @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • A Very Merry Singalong @ Vesuvio @ 5:30 - 7:30
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19:
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • Kids Create: Bay Ridge Rocks @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY for teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • Miss Karen's Science & Math Class @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Child & Parent Yoga @ Raine & Riley's @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 7
  • Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 -5 
  • Zen Kid's Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:15 - 6:45
  • The Nutcracker @ Fort Hamilton High @ 7 (tickets $10)
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First Night Away from the Kids: Tropicana Atlantic City!

12/12/2017

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US Japan Fam: my 1st night away from the kids (in 5 years), hosted by Tropicana Atlantic City
Sometimes moms just need a break. Am I right? And I'm not talking about a moms' night out where you have to deal with the kids in the morning on little sleep and a hangover. I'm talking a REAL BREAK. Like, 36-hours minimum. I don't know why it took me 5 years to take my first night away from the kids. I guess I felt guilty. Ahhhh good ol' mom guilt. Well, you know what? EF THAT!! Can I get an amen??
After years of built up stress (and let's face it, a bit of resentment) of momming three little ones practically 24/7, juggling several entrepreneurial freelance gigs, and having no family nearby for help, I had a near breakdown last weekend. I reached out for advice in my Facebook moms of twins group, because, if anyone gets it, they do!! They all had very similar advice - take care of you, get away, refresh!! So... I immediately decided I would, and soon!! After cross checking my own and hubby's schedules, I realized that the coming weekend would be my only chance for quite some time, so I jumped on it!
Now the dilemma was, where to go!? Not having a car, I wanted some place that was within 3 hours by public transportation to New York City, and that would offer me plenty of ways to relax and be entertained - located within or very close to my hotel. All thoughts kept going to Atlantic City, and after quickly looking through hotel options, the choice was clear: The Tropicana, baby!! Watch my  highlights video below and keep reading for all the details!

Related: Massive List of the Best Family-Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from NYC!
Full disclosure, Tropicana did provide me with a complimentary room in exchange for including them in my "Mom Getaway" story, but I had reached out to them, was thrilled they were interested to collaberate, and all thoughts and opinions are my own!
There were so many signs that seemed like omens, trying to keep me from getting away. One of my twins, all of 2 years old, broke her leg on Thursday night! OMG! The other 2 kids had fresh raging colds. And then Saturday morning, just as I'm leaving, a big snow storm hit, and the direct bus I'd planned to take from Bay Ridge was full (silly me hadn't bought a ticket yet). But, I tried to see them as simply signs from the universe that you have to work for what you want, and you can't just give up. It also helped that hubby was being super supportive! Phew!!
US Japan Fam daddy and kids (twins plus 1)
So, Saturday morning I just bit the bullet and got the heck outta dodge! Took the subway to Port Authority and then the Greyhound Lucky Streak bus to Atlantic City! It's an amazing deal, just $25 each way and if you book your ticket the right way (I didn't, so be careful and ask someone how to do it right!) you get $25 in casino slots credits! The ride is about 2.5 hours (with stops at AC's bus terminal and several of the casinos, including Tropicana), smooth, nice leather seats with seat belts, power outlets for each seat, free wifi (but not fast enough for streaming videos - better to download stuff to watch before leaving home). I totally vegged out and caught up on Jane the Virgin and Riverdale on my CW app LOL!! Don't judge, I think I'll always be a teen girl at heart!
Got dropped off at Tropicana and it took me a good 15 minutes to find the front desk. Seriously, it's a maze and a HUGE hotel!! I finally found it, with a nice long line, yikes, but seriously, even getting lost and waiting in line isn't so bad when you don't have 3 kids whining and running off in different directions on you! HA! Finally got my room, and it was HUGE and beautiful and the view, wowza!! It was a corner room on the 60th floor in the Havana Tower. King bed, huge closet, two windows. Simply fabulous!! I had half a mind to just go to bed and not wake up til check out, but no, I knew I had to explore - so off I went!
My sweet King room at Tropicana Atlantic City, Havana Tower
Yoga in my room at Tropicana Atlantic City, Havana Tower
Bathroom in Tropicana Atlantic City, Havana Tower
First step was exploring the property. They have tons of shops, restaurants, bars, and markets. They had a small indoor pool (located on the 6th floor of the South Tower) but no hot tub, so I didn't bother. I wasn't here to exercise or splash around with kids, after all!
The indoor pool at Tropicana Atlantic City, on the 6th Floor of the South Tower
They were really decked out for the holidays, with great Christmas displays and an automated lights show on one of the trees - very festive and great time of year to visit! Check out #TropHolidays for more beautiful pix!
Poinsettia Christmas tree at Tropicana Atlantic City
Christmas decorations at Tropicana Atlantic City
Christmas Decorations at Tropicana Atlantic City
My favorite area of the hotel was definitely The Quarter, decked out like Old Havana (where I'm dying to actually go one day soon), tropical with palm trees and a blue sky ceiling with clouds. Absolutely adorable and such a fun vibe!! Of course the casino aspect is massive, here and there spread out throughout the entire resort. But can I tell you a little secret? I didn't gamble, not even one slot! HA! Who goes to Atlantic City and doesn't gamble at all? This girl...
Christmas time at Tropicana Atlantic City's Quarter
As the sun set, I headed over to Bar Olon for happy hour - sat down at the bar and scarfed down a yummy $3 empanada and the most delicious white Sangria of my life (for all of $4!). 
Bar Olon at Tropicana Atlantic City
Stepped next door to check out the super secret and kitschy ​Okatshe, you proceed through a hidden door ina Japanese candy shop straight into a modern Izakaya in Tokyo. SO COOL! ​They have a late night happy hour with a DJ.
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Okatshe Japanese Izakaya at Tropicana Atlantic City
Next I headed over to Tropicana Showroom to see their Holiday Jubilee. Think Rockettes' Christmas Spectacular meet Vegas Showgirls, with a bit of Cirque du Soleil thrown in. It was fabulous, fun, and the guy/girl MC's were sometimes super cheesy, but in a good way. It made me smile, and that's a win! For just $25, it was a great deal, especially when you're used to nosebleed Broadway seats running for over $100... Just watch out though, I purchased via Ticketmaster app and it didn't warn me about $14 in fees until after the purchase was complete, and then there's no option to cancel or request a refund. Whomp whomp. So... if you plan to see the show, buy tickets at the box office - they're general admission so just go early for a good seat. My show was 8pm and doors opened at 7:15 and I was somewhere around 10th row center. It's running through December 22 so you still have a chance to catch it, look at my slide show here for a taste:
After the show, I found myself faced with a true dilemma: go to bed or rally and head out to the bars and clubs... ALONE!?! I chose to follow my heart, be brave, and head out. It helped that I could do this without bundling up and leaving the hotel! I do love me some loud music, whether or not I have the guts to dance by myself, just being amidst it all can be fun! Tropicana has TONS of "places to party" as they call it. So you really have to ask yourself what you're looking for - what kind of vibe and what is your budget. Personally I wanted to see the dance club scene, but I'm not down with paying cover, so I checked out Anthem (free for ladies before midnight) and Ivan Kane's Kiss Kiss Nightclub (free if you register yourself for their guest list online and get in before 11:30), the latter of which was, in a word, um, unique? Let's just say I had to heavily edit that clip on my video... you can get a better idea of the club in this youtube video. Let's just say, lots of booties and pasties! HA!
Kiss Kiss Night Club at Tropicana Atlantic City
By 12:30am I was done, headed home, and was out like a light, until something woke me. A sound in the hall I guess. I thought it was around 3am, looked at the clock and it was 10:35am!! WHAT!?? I guess that's how well you sleep when the room is pitch black and you don't have kids screaming out "MOMMYYYYYYYY" at 6am! It was glorious!! Checkout was 11AM, I was bummed they charge for late checkout, so instead went ahead and checked out and left my bags with the bell clerk.
Snowy beach in Atlantic City
Walked along the boardwalk - it was a beautiful (cold) day, blue sky, still snow around from the storm the day prior. Checked out Caesar's and The Playground (shopping mall) before hitting the big Tanger Outlets!! Scored some cute 60% off boots for my girls at The Children's Place, and some jeans and accessories at H&M. These days, I don't dare take the kids shopping with me. And I so rarely get me time, so most of our shopping is done online and I gotta say, there's something to be said for actually getting into a store, feeling the materials, and trying stuff on!! It was grand!! Even grander? The 30 minute massage I got at a small shop on the boardwalk near the hotel for all of $25. Ah-may-zing (and not at all sketchy, or luxurious, but still, it was magical)!!!
Snowy Atlantic City Boardwalk
At around 4pm I headed back to the Trop, grabbed my bag, and caught the 4:45pm greyhound back to the city. My mind was filled with emotions. I missed the kids, but not terribly. I missed hubby and wondered how he'd done alone with the kids without a break for so long. This weekend was a first for him as much as it was for me. I thought, hmmm, this was easier and way better than expected, I could do a week away, easy. Mexico perhaps? All-inclusive, on the beach, yes!

I also reflected on how I can keep myself from another near meltdown, and from resenting my spouse and my kids. How I can prioritize self-care and me-time more, shoving my stingy ways to the background to save my sanity. My plan? Get a babysitter a few hours a week so I can get more work done without having to mind the kids or use screen time to get an article pumped out. Get a half or full day to myself at least once or twice a month. Get a sitter and have a date with hubby once a month. And get a full weekend to myself at least once a year. I think these are practical and achievable goals, and you're all responsible for holding me to them! HA!

How about you? Have you ever taken the back seat to life and those you love? How do you get in your me-time and re-energize? Share in a comment below - we can all use some fresh ideas!!!

​In the meantime, Happy Friggin' Holidays from my family to yours!!! #Blessed
Happy Holidays from US Japan Fam!!
Disclosure: While I received a comped room from Tropicana, all thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased!
11 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: December 7 - 13

12/5/2017

0 Comments

 
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Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of December 7 - 13, 2017! Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadlines.
Miss Karen's Preschool Group in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
ONGOING:​​
  • ​Letters to Santa @ Fairytale Island through December 10
  • ​Toy Donation through December 12
  • Rocks for Love pediatric cancer fundraiser @ Norma's Arts & Crafts til Dec 13
  • Toy Drive @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center (new, unwrapped toys for any age) through Dec 15
  • Bay Ridge Cares' Pajama Drive, through December 15
  • Register for Brunch with Santa at Aviator Sports (event on Dec 17 @ 9am or 12pm)
  • Gingerbread House Classes for kids & adults @ Sugar Coated Bakery
  • Parents of District 21 elementary or middle schoolers, apply for a Community & Citywide Education Council seat by Dec 20
  • Apply to Kindergarten by January 12 (children born in 2013)


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7:
  • Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • Kids' Karaoke @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Teen Time: Holiday Giftmaking @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15​
  • Chess @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 6
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony @ McKinley Park @ 6:30 - 7:30
Piano Storytellers: children's group piano lessons in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8:
  • Alternate Side Parking Suspended (Immaculate Conception)
  • Chinese Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 6
  • Open Studio: Paint Ornaments @ Pinot's Palette @ 3 - 5
  • Game On! Wii & PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Navidad Flamenca @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Gingerbread Party @ The Art Room @ 6 - 8 (sold out)
  • Parents Night Out: A Stork's Journey @ Bounce U @ 6:30 - 9
  • Elf Jr The Musical @ St. Ephrem School @ 8

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9:
  • Holiday Half Marathon @ Bay Ridge Pier @ 9
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Holiday Shopping Fair @ Good Shepherd Bay Ridge @ 10 - 4
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • Book Sale @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 4
  • Winter Wonderland @ St. Anselm @ 11 - 5
  • 5th Ave Holiday Shopping & Trolley with Santa @ 5th Ave between 65th - 85th Street @ 12 - 4
  • Family DJ Dance Party: Holiday Celebration with Music of Disney & Pixar @ Industry City (220 36th St, Courtyard 1/2) @ 12:30
  • Narrow's Community Theater Presents "It's a Wonderful Life" @ Fort Hamilton Army Post Theater @ 2
  • Elf Jr The Musical @ St. Ephrem School @ 2
  • Arts, Culture & Fun @ Ft. Hamilton Senior Center @ 2 - 4
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:15
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • Saturday Storytime: Arabic Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • Christmas Tree Lighting with Live DJ @ 7428 5th Ave @ 4:30
  • Elf Jr The Musical @ St. Ephrem School @ 7
  • Narrow's Community Theater Presents "It's a Wonderful Life" @ Fort Hamilton Army Post Theater @ 8
Textile Arts Center Mini Camps in Brooklyn and Manhattan
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10:
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11
  • Brunch with Santa @ Fort Hamilton Community Club @ 11 - 2
  • Kids Art Zone: Holiday Cards @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 1
  • Winter Wonderland @ St. Anselm @ 11 - 5
  • Sunday with Santa @ DGK @ 12 - 3
  • Narrow's Community Theater Presents "It's a Wonderful Life" @ Fort Hamilton Army Post Theater @ 2
  • Christmas Cabaret @ Bay Ridge UMC @ 3 - 4:30
  • Children's Chorus of Bay Ridge, Winter Concert @ Good Shepherd @ 3 - 5
  • Elf Jr The Musical @ St. Ephrem School @ 8
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 11:
  • Miss Karen's Reading & Literacy Class @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12 
  • Chinese Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong @ The Coop @ 11
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 6
  • Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Kids Create: Littlebits w/ ipads @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Chess @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
Front Line Dance Center in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12:
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date & Hannukah Party @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY for teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
Raine and Riley's kids' yoga classes in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • Miss Karen's Science & Math Class @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:30
  • Child & Parent Yoga @ Raine & Riley's @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • The Buttons Band FINAL kids' class @ The Coop @ 11 - 11:45
  • Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Snowball Storytime @ The Bookmark Shoppe @ 3
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4:30
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 7
  • Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • DIY: Galaxy Jars @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Zen Kid's Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:15 - 6:45
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    About Me ^_^

    I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1).  This blog is chock full of product reviews, family travel guides, and giveaways galore! It's also home to Bay Ridge Families, and several guides focused on kid-friendly activities and guides to South Brooklyn, Hudson Valley, and New Jersey, as well as family-friendly destinations beyond the NYC area (check the menu bar!)

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