Report for duty, families! Headquarters has declared December Break an all-hands-on-deck mission of fun, creativity, and holiday cheer. From scavenger hunts to hands-on crafts to model trains and pajama parties, the museum is fully stocked with activities for every young recruit and seasoned aviation fan.

🎖️ Operation Mincemeat Scavenger Hunt

December 20 – January 4 | 10 AM–5 PM
Recruits, we need sharp eyes! Nine briefcases have been secretly placed throughout the galleries. Each holds an important letter—collect them all, crack the mystery code, and report to the Museum Store to claim your reward. A lighthearted WWII-style “mission briefing” will prepare your squad for undercover action.

🏠 Make-and-Take: Create Your Own Gingerbread House

December 20 – January 4 | 12 PM–4 PM
Assemble your own foam gingerbread house inspired by cozy 1940s architecture. Decorate, customize, and take home your holiday masterpiece.
$5 add-on with museum admission.

✈️ Wooden Clothespin Planes

December 20 – January 4 | 12 PM–4 PM
Construct and decorate a mini wooden airplane using clothespins and craft sticks—perfect for any junior aviator.
Free with museum admission.

🛍️ Museum Store

Stock up on gifts, aviation keepsakes, and out-of-this-world merchandise. Every purchase supports the Cradle’s mission to preserve history and inspire the next generation of aerospace heroes.

🚂 Long Island Garden Railway Society Model Train Show

December 20 – January 4
The rails are ready! Enjoy the Society’s annual model train display—always a family favorite and free with museum admission.

💚 A Very Grinchy Pajama Party — December 27

A night of holiday mischief featuring cookie painting, a hot chocolate bar, a photo op with the Grinch, and two screenings of The Grinch (2018). Details and Online Ticketing Here!

Thank you, recruits—your holiday adventures help power the museum’s education and preservation missions, keeping our history flying high. 🫡