Weekend Planner: Chinese Culture, Reptile Show, Puppet Movie in Irvington

When/Where: Friday, January 6, 8 p.m. at Irvington Town Hall Theater

Why Go: Meet Kevin Clash, the man behind the iconic character Elmo—in a special screening of the documentary “Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey.” Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, with Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell and others, this intimate, award-winning documentary gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse of “Sesame Street” and the Jim Henson Workshop.

Price: Tickets are $8.85

A Chinese Celebration

When/Where:   Saturday, January 7, 10:30 a.m. at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library in North Salem

Why Go:  This event at the library is an opportunity to hear stories and do activities in Mandarin and English. You will learn about Chinese symbols and Chinese customs and make a Chinese craft. All ages welcome.

Price: Free – no registration necessary

A Talk About Chinese Classical Dance and Culture

When/Where:  Saturday, January 7 at 2 p.m. at Mamaroneck Public Library

Why Go: Come to the Mamaroneck Public Library for a discussion about Shen Yun, one of the premier classical Chinese dance companies. The talk will provide a brief overview of key dynasties, classic stories and fascinating characters from Chinese literature; it will introduce Chinese musical instruments before explaining how Shen Yun uses dance to express Chinese civilization and its values.

Price:  Free

Family First Saturday: The Mask of Imagination

When/Where:  Saturday, January 7, 1:00 p.m. at Neuberger Museum of Art in Purchase

Why Go: Family First Saturdays are free, monthly art workshops for children—tots to ten years old, with their families at the Neuberger Museum of Art. This Saturday’s workshop will focus on emotion and identity through artistic expression, featuring a mask making workshop and live performances.

Price:  Free admission for all from 12–5 p.m.

Open Gym in Pleasantville

When/Where: Saturday, January 8 from 3-5 p.m. at Rosenthal JCC in Pleasantville

Why Go:    Do you need a warm, indoor space for your preschooler to frolic?  The Rosenthal JCC is offering an active afternoon of fun. Parental supervision required.

Price:  Free for members, $5 non-member child. No reservations required

Hike in the New Year

When/Where:  Saturday, January 8, from 1-3 p.m. at Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining

Why Go:  Kick off the New Year with a hearty hike in the frosty air. Search for winter wildlife as you explore the Waterfall Trail, then toast the New Year with a hot drink. Adults only.

Price:  $5, reservations required.

New York Metro Reptile Show

When/Where: Sunday, January 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the in White Plains

Why Go:  Roam the center and be among thousands of live pet reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates that will be on display and for sale. You will also find books, supplies, cages and more at more than 200 vendor tables. Visitors are asked to leave their pets at home and kids must be accompanied by someone older than 21.

Price:  Admission is $10, $5 for ages 7 to 12, free for those younger than 7.

Winter Festival at Camp Kiwi

When/Where: Sunday, January 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Camp Kiwi in Carmel

Why Go:  This event is fun for the whole family and supports the Pajama Program—a non for profit organization that delivers warm sleepwear and nurturing books to children in need. There will be storytelling by Jonathan Kruk, an educational animal show, performances, activities, vendors, balloon sculpting, face painting—and snow is even being brought in for sleigh riding. The event is hosted by Camp Kiwi, Cartwright & Daughters Tent & Party Rentals and Just 4 Fun Entertainment.

Price:  $10 per car

Westchester Klezmer Band in Chappaqua

When/Where: Sunday, January 8 at 3 p.m. at the Chappaqua Library

Why Go: The Westchester Klezmer Band is an intergenerational band program in Westchester County, bringing Eastern European dance and folk music to life. Enjoy a lively program appropriate for the whole family.