Today
IN THE SWIM: Coney Island’s annual Mermaid Parade is an absolute must for any kid from NYC. (Out-of-towners will love it, too!) Standing on the boardwalk to watch the crazy sea-themed floats, spectacular mermaids, vintage cars and, of course, King Neptune, is a Big Apple rite of passage. Don’t forget to dress up! 2 p.m., free, starts at Surf Avenue and West 21st Street, Brooklyn; coneyisland.com
LEARN TO FLY: Cross your fingers for windy weather! The Brooklyn Kite Festival is open to experienced and amateur fliers. And if you don’t have a kite of your own, you can buy one when you get there. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., free. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1, Old Fulton Street at Water Street; 718-802-0603, brooklynbridgeparknyc.org
PRINCESS PARTY: Calling all “sparkle-tastic” girls with a thing for pink! Moey of Moey’s Music Party is playing a free “Princess” concert just for you, featuring songs off her new CD, “Princess Revolution.” Be sure to wear a tiara! Noon, Bryant Park Reading Room, Sixth Avenue between 41st and 42nd streets; moeysmusicparty.com
TOMORROW
COME SAIL AWAY: Pirates are all the rage these days, and you never know when those swashbuckling skills will come in handy. Brush up on your pirate walk, talk and more at the interactive show “Help Wanted: Pirates,” where kids assist Captain Squid in sinking the British navy on the open seas. 11 a.m., $25. Magnet Theater, 254 W. 29th St., between Seventh and Eighth avenues; 877-844-8204, sittersstudio.com/theater
ONGOING
THE WHEEL THING: Need a fun activity to get your family moving? Bike and Roll NYC offers guided bicycle tours of the city for all ages and skill levels, so you can pedal around Central Park or explore DUMBO or whichever part of town is your speed. Rental bikes available. Times and prices vary; for more info, call 212-260-0400, or visit bikenewyorkcity.com