President's Day Events:

Family Day at the State Theatre (New Brunswick)
An annual tradition for my own family, this fun and free event takes place in five venues near New Brunswick’s State Theatre, some indoors and others in heated tents. Festivities include a family-friendly music performance by Brady Rymer, face painting, balloon animals, theater workshops, crafts and a photo booth.

President's Day Workshop at Morris Museum (Morristown)
The kids are invited to learn about US Presidents through a game of presidential bingo. Plus, create a patriotic craft. Free with museum admission.

American Pride Laser Show (Morristown)
Morris Museum is the place to be on President’s Day. After a round of bingo, bring the family to the American Pride Laser Show in the children’s theater, an amazing musical spectacular with patriotic and rock music. Tickets sold separately from admission.

President’s Day for Kids (Montclair)
Celebrate President’s Day at an event all about presidents at Montclair’s Crane House and Historic YMCA. Crafts and hands-on activities are part of the fun. Recommended for ages 6-10.

Afternoon Tea with My Doll and Me (Westfield)
If a tea party with dolls sounds like your child’s dream day off from school, bring them over to Just Bead Yourself for an afternoon of tea, cookies and jewelry crafts. Pre-registration is required.

Valentine’s Day Party at Kidz Village (Kenilworth)
Continue your Valentine’s Day festivities at Kidz Village, where the fun includes pizza, dancing, cupcakes and lots of playtime.

Some Freebies for the Rest of the Week:

Tuesday 2/16- Veggiecation Kids’ Cooking Class (Madison)
Cook up some healthy fun with your 5-10 year olds chefs at Whole Foods Rose City. Pre-registration is required.

Tuesday 2/16- Toddler Tuesdays (Paramus)
Bring the tots to Westfield Garden State Plaza to burn some energy with games, playtime and giveaways.

Wednesday 2/17- Read to the Dog (Freehold)
Share stories with therapy pups at Freehold Public Library.

Thursday 2/18- Girls Who Code Club (Newark)
Girls 10 and up can learn all about the tech world with hands-on activities, such as how to build an app and how to design a video game. Event takes place at Newark Public Library.

Good Old-Fashioned Winter Fun:

Glide on over to one of New Jersey’s indoor or outdoor ice skating rinks.

Bundle up and check out the state’s hottest, yet coldest, skiing and snowboarding spots.

If your family loves sledding, dare to give snow tubing a try.

In case of blizzard, check out this great round-up of snow day boredom busters.

Dodge the cold and indulge in some free indoor activities.

Photo: Family Day at the State Theatre