Local historic sites offer educational programs for kids

Thursday August 16, 2012 12:51 PM By Kristin Taveira

Photo credit: Leslie Barbaro | Washington Irving's Tarrytown home, Sunnyside. (May 10, 2012)

Got a kid who loves history? This week, three local historic sites invite you to travel back in time and explore American history. Find the details here.

Thursday: Explore Washington Irving’s Sunnyside

A scavenger hunt, stories, games and crafts will bring the 19th century home of Washington Irving to life for kids. Follow a guide in period dress on an exploration around the estate and make a nature-themed craft. The all-day event is recommended for ages 5 and up.

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 16

Info: Washington Irving's Sunnyside, 3 West Sunnyside Lane, Tarrytown; 914-631-8200; www.hudsonvalley.org/historic-sites/washington-irvings-sunnyside; $12 for adults; $10 for seniors; $6 for children 3-17; free for members and children under 3

Saturday: History under the stars at John Jay Homestead

Pack a picnic dinner and have a Colonial-style adventure under the stars at John Jay Homestead. This overnight campout includes a tour of the historic house, a campfire and Colonial crafts. Families are welcome to bring their own tents or camp inside the 19th century barn. Please bring your own flashlights and bedrolls.

When: 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 18; campout ends at 10 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 19

Info: John Jay Homestead, 400 Route 22, Katonah; 914-232-5651, ext. 101; johnjayhomestead.org; $60 per family; $50 per family for members; register in advance; deposit required

Saturday: Stony Point Battlefield Lantern Tour

Grab a flashlight and walk the walk of an American soldier making a stealthy midnight invasion on a British camp. Lantern light and battle sounds enhance the experience as you follow your guide and learn about the attack at Stony Point one summer night in 1779. The 90-minute experience is for adults and children age 8 and up.

When: 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 18

Info: Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Rd., Stony Point; 845-786-2521; nysparks.com/historic-sites/8/details.aspx; $4 for adults; $3 for children age 8 and up and seniors; register in advance

Photo: Washington Irving's Sunnyside

Tags: Tarrytown , Katonah , Stony Point , kids , events , history