Kid’s Korner
By Laura Calhoon
Museum of the Hudson Highlands Discovery Quests Every Sat.-Sun. in July:
Go on an exciting adventure quest through the trails at the museum’s Kenridge Farm property. A real ranger sets you up and sends you on your way along various woodland routes that range from easy to challenging (for ages five and older). $3, reservations recommended. Rte. 9W, Cornwall. 845-534-5506, ext. 204 or www.museumhudsonhighlands.org
Huguenot Historical Society Kids’ Archaeology Week July 23-27:
Youngsters will love exploring New Paltz’s historic Huguenot Street. They’ll take part in a real archaeological dig and examine artifacts from residents who lived here hundreds of years ago, including Native Americans, Huguenots, and the Dutch. They’ll also design an exhibit for Archaeology Day. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. all week. Call for fees. 18 Broadhead Ave., New Paltz. 845-255-1660 or www.hhs-newpaltz.org
Hudson River Cruises Kids’ Kruise July 13:
Grownups aren’t the only ones who can have fun cruising on the Hudson River. Join mom and dad for an afternoon of nautical fun aboard the Rip Van Winkle. Enjoy the antics of a magician and dance the day away to a live DJ. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Reservations recommended, call for ticket information. Rondout Landing (at the foot of Broadway), Kingston. 800-843-7472 or www.hudsonrivercruises.com
Belleayre Music festival The Three Little Pigs July 29:
You won’t be huffing or puffing when you see this world premiere of Children’s Opera Theatre’s version of The Three Little Pigs. But, wait — opera for kids? That’s right! Famous music by composers such as Donizetti, Mozart, Puccini and Rossini, along with a new script and lyrics, will show your kids just how much fun opera can be. For ages three to 10. 1 p.m. Call for ticket information. Belleayre Music Festival, Belleayre Mountain Rd., Pine Hill. 800-942-6904 or www.belleayremusic.org
The Center for Performing arts AT RHINEBECK Bubble Trouble July 14:
Have you ever wondered about the science inside bubbles? Join Jeff Boyer as he tells you everything you want to know about bubbles. Ever seen a pyramid-shaped bubble? Or bubbles inside other bubbles? As a finale, watch as Jeff puts a kid inside a bubble. It might even be you! Dr. Marmalade July 28: The amazing Dr. Marmalade travels the world helping puppet animals in her wagon. Meet some new friends who will make you smile, including a gorilla with a bellyache, a lost puppy, and a snake who longs to be a kitten. Call for times. $9, $7 children. 661 Rte. 308, Rhinebeck. 845-876-3080 or www.centerforperformingarts.org
Tarrytown Music Hall Dandelion July 18:
The Paper Bag Players combine a series of plays, dances, and audience participation for a show that takes you back in time to the beginning of the world, right to the start of civilization. See how ordinary household objects like cardboard boxes and brown bags are transformed into props and set, creating a whole new world of color and fun onstage. Plenty of audience participation! 11 a.m. $12. 13 Main St., Tarrytown. 914-631-3390 or www.tarrytownmusichall.org
The Emelin Theatre Hans Christian Andersen July 28:
Known as Denmark’s greatest storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen brought many different stories to children. In this original staged adaptation from the Missoula Children’s Theatre, these stories come to life in a medley of entertaining skits centered around the childhood and life of the author. Meet a conceited emperor, a duckling that doesn’t fit in, and a girl no taller than your thumb, among other delightful characters. Call for schedule and ticket information. Library Lane, Mamaroneck. 914-698-3045 or www.emelin.org
Potter Mania
RRITT BOOKSTORES Harry Potter Midnight Event July 20-21:
Celebrate the moment when Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — the seventh and final book in J.K. Rowling’s acclaimed series — is released with the staff of the Merritt Bookstores. Each of the three shops will have a slightly different version of Potter mania. In Cold Spring, the festivities kick off with face painting, wand making, costume constuction, and a parade just before midnight. Once the clock strikes 12, there will be a reading of the novel performed by local actors; drinks and snacks are provided. The next day, take part in a Harry Potter trivia contest and an awards ceremony. It’s sure to be a magical start to your weekend. 66 Main St., Cold Spring; 845-265-9100. Millbrook: 845-677-5857; Red Hook: 845-758-2665 or www.merrittbooks.com