Mostly Free & Fun Things to Do this Weekend with Westchester Kids: Turkey Run, Parades, Giving Thanks & More, Nov. 22 & 23

11/20/14 - By Susan Miele

As we reach the final weekend before Thanksgiving, a few provocative events in Westchester are worth noting. Gospel Concert: Giving Thanks is a FREE performance sure to step up gratitude. And, as Thanksgiving is as much about Native Americans as it is pilgrims, The Lenape of Westchester will enlighten attendees about this tribe that used to inhabit our area. Another top pick is Turkey Run Peekskill, which combines both charity and comedy (and even calorie-burning). Also be sure to check out our roundup of other upcoming turkey trots in Westchester. If you’re ready to gear up for Christmas too, there’s the Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Cross County Shopping Center.

Unrelated to holidays, there are two noteworthy performances taking place this weekend: Lily's Purple Plastic Purse and An Arabian Adventure: A Puppet Show. For a heads-up on upcoming holiday performances in Westchester, check out our roundup of some highlights.

Heading to NYC? Check out our exclusive Mommy Poppins reader event this Saturday night at the New Victory Theater.  Readers get to enjoy a performance of 360 Allstars, a thrilling athletic spectacle, a post-show cookie decorating activity and save 20% on their ticket by using MommyPoppins1 at checkout. 

Read on for more details about these activities and be sure to consult our Event Calendar for daily activities and the abundance of holiday events!

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SATURDAY

The Lenape of Westchester - Cross River
Learn about the Native American tribe that lived in Westchester before the pilgrims came over—replete with wigwam, crafts, food and more! Park admission: $5 with park pass, $10 without

Turkey Run Peekskill - Peekskill
This annual event serves three purposes: 1) Help feed those in need this Thanksgiving; 2) burn off some calories in advance of the feast; 3) be ridiculous. Admission: donation of a frozen turkey (the humorous part is what’s done with this!).

Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Cross County Shopping Center - Yonkers
Get into the Christmas spirit at this annual tree-lighting event featuring a live performance of swing music, strolling entertainers and, of course, Santa—plus there’s even more! FREE.

Intro to Car Maintenance for New Drivers - White Plains
This practical workshop teaches teens about car maintenance to help get more mileage out of their vehicle and keep it in tip-top shape. FREE

An Arabian Adventure: A Puppet Show - Scarsdale
Enjoy a puppet show performed by The Tanglewood Marionettes. Two show times are available. FREE

51st Annual Valenti Thanksgiving Day Parade - New Rochelle
Head out to Westchester's largest parade, the annual Valenti Thanksgiving Day Parade, featuring over a dozen marching bands and floats and over 1,000 participants. FREE

SUNDAY

Gospel Concert: Giving Thanks – New Rochelle
Ratchet up the gratitude at this spiritual singing of inspirational holiday music. $2 suggested donation

Lily's Purple Plastic Purse - Mamaroneck
Children can enjoy a play written just for them about Lilly and the various interpersonal conflicts she faces. $15

CPR Certification for Teens - White Plains
Teens can learn how to save lives at this special program for their age group. FREE

BEYOND WESTCHESTER

Never mind that other Thanksgiving parade in the city when you can head over to the UBS Parade Spectacular in Stamford! This local tradition features giant balloon characters, marching bands, performances, floats and more. What’s more, while the parade takes place on Sunday, you can catch the balloon inflation—a spectacle of its own--on Saturday.

Don't forget our exclusive Mommy Poppins reader event this Saturday night! Enjoy a performance of 360 Allstars and a post-show cookie decorating activity. Readers also save 20% on their ticket by using MommyPoppins1 at checkout.

Younger kids can enjoy a live performance of The Amazing Adventures of Harvey and the Princess, created by the Laurie Berkner and Barbara Zinn Krieger. This musical tells the fantastical story of Harvey and the journey that his wild imagination takes him on. 

Remember to check out our Events Calendar for even more fun happening this weekend and beyond in Westchester. And be sure to sign up for our FREE weekly newsletter to stay up-to-date on our latest reviews, tips and more.