Upcoming Weekend Activities:
February 18th and 19th
There are lots of things to celebrate right now (Black History Month, Mardi Gras, mild winter weather) so get out there and try something new this weekend. As always, the City has a diverse range of eco-friendly activities to offer for families and children alike.
Anansi the African Spider Man: Listen to cherished African tales of the mischievous Anansi the Spider and discover the beauty of the African culture at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. Create your own Anansi spider to take home. Saturday, February 18, 2:00 –3:30 p.m., ages 5 and under.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Bryant Park: This Mardi Gras, the coolest party north of New Orleans will be at Le Carrousel in Bryant Park. This bash promises masks, music, and more for kids of all ages. There’ll be a parade of all the dressed up revelers (remember: purple, gold, and green are the traditional Mardi Gras colors), beads galore, warm apple cider, and chocolate coins. Everyone’s invited and, of course, it’s all free. Magician R.J. Lewis, an old hand at Le Carrousel, will host and perform magic tricks, and music will be supplied by Dr. Zsa’s Powdered Zydeco Band. Saturday, February 18, 1:00 –2:00 p.m.
Compost & Healthy Soils Workshop: Are you passionate about composting but want more from your bin? This Q&A session provides the practical tips, advice, and encouragement you need to take composting to the next level, whether you are just starting out or have been digging in for years. Saturday, February 18, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Festival of the Vegetables: A whimsical series of brief, witty poems, piano pieces, and dances that reveal the secret life of vegetables—stories of bravery, bounciness, and a Veggie Wedding!—each introduced by a couple of silly, yet eloquent produce clerks. Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm
Genealogy Workshop with Wilhelmina Kelly: This presentation by renowned genealogist Wilhelmina Kelly will explore the basics of genealogy, with tips on how to research Revolutionary War ancestors. Attendees should bring any family information they have already located. Space is limited so sign up as early as possible in order to reserve a spot. Saturday, February 18, 2:00 p.m.
Peace Ride: Take a leisurely peaceful bike ride with Time’s Up, NYC’s Direct Action Environmental Organization, to some of downtown Manhattan’s peace sites. You will visit: Point Thank You, Robert Wagner Park, The Labyrinth for Contemplation, Fritz Koenig’s The Sphere, Vietnam Vet Memorial and the site of the Mother AME Zion Church (first church in NYC built and led by African Americans). Sunday, February 19. Meet at Gandhi Statue, SW corner of Union Square (across from Staples), 11:00 a.m.
The Urban Divers Nautical Exposition: Celebrate Black History Month with these spectacular nautical exhibitions, which feature an impressive collection of artifacts, accessories, historic naval armament and costumes. An enriching, entertaining, and interactive cultural experience is promised to all in attendance. Sunday, February 19, 1:00 –4:00 p.m.
Editor's Note: The opinions expressed in Greenversations are those of the author. They do not reflect EPA policy, endorsement, or action, and EPA does not verify the accuracy or science of the contents of the blog.