May the Force be with you
Nov. 17: Jedi Academy Learn the ways of the Jedi from Master David Engel. Come dressed as your favorite character from the Star Wars film series to train with your light saber and prepare to defend the planet in an intergalactic battle for good. Engel entertains young Padawans with magic tricks and physical challenges that help thwart the ways of the Sith. 11 a.m. $9, $7 children. Rhinebeck Center for Performing Arts. 661 Rte. 308, Rhinebeck. 845-876-3080 or www.centerforperformingarts.org
Play time
Nov. 4: Native American Toys and Games Test your coordination skills with these games that early Native American children used to play. A favorite was “hoop and spear,” which measures your ability to throw a spear and hit a target. Other games build strength and balance for hunting. Conclude the day by creating your own toys with items that can only be found in nature. 10 a.m. $7, $5 children. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum. 100 Muser Dr., Cornwall. 845-534-5506 or www.hhnaturemuseum.org
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Slow and steady wins the race
Nov. 4: The Ugly Duckling and the Tortoise & the Hare This innovative show lights up the stage — literally. The members of the performing group Lightwire Theater don black body suits decorated with colorful lights to perform these two classic tales. Through classical, jazz, and pop music, the ugly duckling teaches the value of inner beauty, and the determined tortoise shows that perseverance can really pay off. 3 p.m. $10, adults free when accompanying a child. The Egg. Empire State Plaza, Albany. 518-473-1845 or www.theegg.org
Happy holidays
Nov. 23-25: Holiday Premiere Once the last slice of Thanksgiving pie is eaten, there’s no stopping the Christmas craze. Kick off the holidays at Washington Irving’s Sunnyside with special winter-themed tours. Costumed guides describe the festivities of a 19th-century Christmas using fun stories, and kids can create their own holiday cards and decorations. 10 a.m. $14, $12 seniors, $8 children 3-17. 3 W. Sunnyside Ln., Tarrytown. 914-591-8763 or www.historichudsonvalley.org
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Working on the railroad
Nov. 11: Railroad Exposition All different types of miniature locomotives are on display at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center. Dozens of model trains chug around the space on huge layouts, some of which reach up to 70 feet in length. Play with Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, or grab a remote control and take a few of the models for a spin. 10 a.m. $5, $2 children under 12. 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie. 845-454-5800 or www.midhudsonciviccenter.org
