Friday, December 26
The Bronx Zoo is turning up the heat in December with "Tropics on Ice," a glittering frozen display highlighting conservation work in the Brazilian rainforests and the Amazon River Basin. Guests at this tropical winter wonderland can plunge down a frozen waterslide, craft rainforest animals and watch professional sculptors carve animal statues from huge blocks of ice. Events will take place at the Dancing Crane Pavilion, Bronx Zoo. 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx. Admission to the zoo costs $16.95 for adults and $12.95 for chldren ages 3-12 (kids 2 and under get in free).
Saturday, December 27
This year marks the American Museum of Natural History's 36th annual celebration of Kwanzaa, the annual week-long festival honoring the heritage of African peoples throughout the world. Check out drummers William Diarra Humes and Jason Simmons, learn about cooperative economics (Ujamaa) with Chiedza McCannon of Afrodesiac Worldwide, marvel at a solo performance from Tony-winning tap dancer Savion Glover, and much more. Events are scheduled for the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life and Kaufman Theater on the first floor. Admission is free for members or with museum admission. Central Park West and 79th Street, Manhattan.
Those who prefer open pastures to holiday windows this season should head to the Queens County Farm, a 47-acre historic agrarian center whose history dates back to 1697. Explore the greenhouse, see the livestock and the historic buildings. From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., tour the decorated Adriance Farmhouse and sip freshly mulled cider at a free holiday open house. 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, NY 11004-1129.
Sunday, December 28
Too cold to stay outdoors? Warm up with a special holiday brunch and a performance by La Vie En Rose at the Highline Ballroom. French native singer Violette joins musicians from around the world to bring you a mélange of French Chanson, American swing and contemporary pop. Tickets cost $15-25. Doors open at 11 a.m., show begins at 12:30 p.m. 431 W. 16th St., Chelsea.
Long Island-born, New York-based Brandee Younger was trained as a classical harpist, but she's since found a niche working with hip-hop and jazz. Find her strumming up a storm at 5:30 p.m. at Minton's, 206 W. 188th St. Harlem. Reservations are recommended: call 212-243-2222.
