Winter Guide: Lifestyle & Events

There's more to do this winter than sit by the fireside and drink hot cocoa. Get out on the town and enjoy the icy air with these great events. By Jessica Mastronardi and Rebecca Temerario To the Last Fifty? Dec. 20?Jan. 6: Rolling Stones: 50 The Paley Center for Media, 25 W. 52nd St., paleycenter.org, $5-$10 It's hard to believe that the Rolling Stones have only been around for 50 years, but there ain't no use in dwelling on it. Rolling Stones: 50 is giving all fans the opportunity to look back on the journey that changed music forever. The Paley Center for Media invites you into this world through rare photographs, videos and even concert footage that brings you right into the stands (or dirt fields). The Sweet Smell of Success Dec. 20?Feb. 24: The Art of Scent Museum of Arts and Design, 2 Columbus Circle, madmuseum.org, $15 members; high school students and children 12 and under free. The Museum of Arts and Design presents the first major museum exhibit dedicated to the art of smell. While taking the step-by-step tour of the evolution and design of fragrances, you will delve into the creative process that goes into every scent. From 1899 (when Aimé Guerlain created the first "abstract" perfume Jicky) through today, you will see and learn what made fragrances like Oliver Cresp's Angel and Ernest Beaux's Chanel N°5 paragons of art in their own right. All Aboard! Dec. 20?Feb. 10: 11th Annual Holiday Train Show Free, Grand Central Station, grandcentralterminal.com Grand Central Terminal is giving you the chance to climb on board one of its eight vintage Lionel trains and enjoy a ride through a 34-foot-long New York City. As Grand Central Station rapidly approaches the big Centennial age, it is deciding to ride in style. In this brand-new layout, the model trains of Metro-North and New York Central head out of the pint size Grand Central and travel north. This one isn't just for the kids. Grow NYC Do the Rot Thing: Greenmarkets Make Food Scrap Composting Easy Grow NYC, 51 Chambers St., Room 228 If Thanksgiving was any reminder, we throw away a lot of food. In fact, food makes up 17 percent of NYC's waste. GrowNYC provides a solution with food scrap drop-offs at several Greenmarkets. Simply store scraps such as apple cores and coffee grounds and bring to a collection site. Materials will be composted locally and used for urban farm and garden projects. Since 2011, this program has kept more than 935,000 pounds of food out of the landfill. Help make it a million! For more information, visit www.grownyc.org/compost or call 212-788-7964. Hot Hockey for a Good Cause Dec. 22, FDNY / NY Rangers Alumni vs. NYPD / NY Islanders Alumni Hockey Madison Square Garden, 4 Penn Plaza, thegarden.com, 7:30 p.m. Head to the Garden to see two of the city's finest-force teams face off again, as alumni of the FDNY and the NY Rangers team up against the NYPD and the NY Islanders. This holiday hockey game is a fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Sandy. The "Rivals for Relief" event donates portions of the event's proceeds to the Red Cross and the Stan Lee Foundation. Currently, players include Chris Kostopoulos of the NY Rangers and Gordie Lane of the NY Islanders. West End Collegiate Church 368 West End Ave., 212-787-1566, westendchurch.org West End Collegiate Church, on the Upper West Side, is a church for those who seek an open-minded and inclusive Christian congregation. We welcome all people, providing a safe place to seek, doubt, learn, believe, celebrate, and most of all, experience and express God's love. We are a church where people can discover a faith that flourishes, join a community that cares, and commit to service that will change lives. Join us on Christmas Eve for the Children's Pageant at 6:30 and the Candlelight Service at 9 p.m. Sunday morning services are at 11 a.m. Church of the Transfiguration 1 E. 29th St., 212-684-6770, littlechurch.org The Church of the Transfiguration was given the nickname "The Little Church Around the Corner" in 1870 after the then-Rector agreed to bury a well-known actor whose funeral had been refused by a nearby church (no longer existing). His policy of inclusion not only embraced theater people but also African-American people living in the neighborhood. He also initiated a generous marriage policy accepting couples who did not meet the requirements of other churches. That policy continues today with the first same-sex marriages at Transfiguration this year. So inclusion continues. Merry Christmas. Rediscover Your Park Dec. 26?Feb. 28: The Wild Garden: Discovering Central Park Woodlands Exhibit Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, Central Park, 110th St. between Fifth & Lenox, nycgovparks.org, 10 a.m.?5 p.m. This hands-on exhibit demonstrates the ecology, history and management of Central Park. The exhibit will take place inside Central Park at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, one of the park's newer buildings, on the north shore of the Harlem Meer. The exhibit is enhanced by a digital and interactive application presenting historical photos and hidden features. This event reoccurs Wednesday to Sunday through February. The Perfect Getaway Skytop: Naturally Inspired One Skytop, Skytop, Pa.; 800-345-7759, skytop.com Experience the ultimate retreat by visiting one of the most esteemed lodges in the country. This grand historic estate features the very best in accommodations, fine dining and limitless recreation including the new Adventure Center at Skytop. You and your family can explore 5,500 pristine acres of inspiring natural beauty while enjoying a range of seasonal activities. Choose from the adventurous-like clay shooting and downhill skiing-to the serene-like nature hikes and full spa services. No matter your age, personality or desire, Skytop Lodge can make your next trip an unforgettable experience. Call 800-345-7759 or visit skytop.com. One Thrilling Combination Dec. 31: One Singular Sensation: Celebrating Marvin Hamlisch Avery Fisher Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, nyphil.org, 7:30 p.m., $95-$320 Was Marvin Hamlisch a sensation? Well, if you consider four Grammys, four Emmys, two Golden Globes, three Oscars, one Tony and a Pulitzer sensational, then yes. If you have ever been touched, inspired or entertained by Marvin, you are not going to want to miss One Singular Sensation. This New Year's Eve concert event unites the famous New York Philharmonic with an all-star cast (including Audra McDonald, Josh Groban and Megan Hilty) to commemorate everything we loved about Marvin Hamlisch. New York Grand Opera New York Grand Opera, 250 W. 54th St., #807; 212-245-883, newyorkgrandopera.org Founded by Vincent La Selva, The New York Grand Opera has performed for more than 3,000,000 people since its inaugural production of La Bohème in 1973. Well-known for its annual free summer series in Central Park, The New York Grand Opera has also played such prestigious the Beacon Theatre and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Known for its presentations of standards like Aida, Rigoletto and Tosca, it has also performed rarities such as Leoncavallo's La Bohème and Verdi's Stiffelio in their U.S. premieres. Mr. La Selva's contribution to the cultural life of New York was commended by New York former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, an avid opera lover, who awarded La Selva the coveted Handel Medallion, New York City's highest distinction for achievement in culture and the arts. Summer 2013 will mark the New York Grand Opera's 40th season. New York Grand Opera New York Grand Opera, 250 W. 54th St., #807; 212-245-883, newyorkgrandopera.org Founded by Vincent La Selva, The New York Grand Opera has performed for more than 3,000,000 people since its inaugural production of La Bohème in 1973. Well-known for its annual free summer series in Central Park, The New York Grand Opera has also played such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, the Beacon Theatre and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Known for its presentations of standards like Aida, Rigoletto and Tosca, it has also performed rarities such as Leoncavallo's La Bohème and Verdi's Stiffelio in their U.S. premieres. Mr. La Selva's contribution to the cultural life of New York was commended by New York former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, an avid opera lover, who awarded La Selva the coveted Handel Medallion, New York City's highest distinction for achievement in culture and the arts. Summer 2013 will mark the New York Grand Opera's 40th season. Running in the New Year Dec. 31: Midnight Run through Central Park Central Park Bandshell, South of 72nd St. Transverse; nycruns.com, 11:45 p.m., $20-$65 Why not ring in this New Year on the right foot? Or left. If you don't feel like eating and drinking to excess on this particular eve, sign up for the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. Be one of many that set off like a firework, under the fireworks, at the stroke of midnight. Four miles later, we guarantee you will be feeling much better than those leaving the bars. Don't know what to do before midnight? Head to Central Park at 10 for a dance party followed by a costume parade and contest at 11 as you prepare to kiss 2012 goodbye. Kick Off 2013 Right Dec. 31: New Year's Eve at the Highline Ballroom Highline Ballroom, 431 W. 16th St., highlinenewyears.com, 8:00 p.m. Come ring in the New Year at the Highline Ballroom, one of the Meatpacking District's hottest venues! This 900-plus capacity space boasts unobstructed stage views from wherever you might be dancing the night, and year, away. With its industrial feel and its penchant for attracting a spectrum of past performers like Stevie Wonder, there's no better way to celebrate the start of something beautiful. If dancing isn't your thing, the Highline Ballroom also offers private VIP lounges. Tickets start at $85. Salute to Vienna, Attila Glatz Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center; salutetovienna.com Welcome the New Year with "Salute to Vienna," patterned after Vienna's world-famous "Neujahrskonzert," returning for a glorious 18th season with a fresh, new program. A festive New Year's concert, featuring a brilliant new cast of over 75 musicians, stellar European singers and dancers in beautiful costumes. A lighthearted blend of popular Strauss waltzes, polkas and famous operetta excerpts from Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow and more-something for everyone to enjoy. Art-Filled Day Trip Montclair Art Museum, 3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair, N.J.; 973-746-5555; montclair-art.com The Montclair Art Museum (MAM) engages the community through its distinctive collection of American and Native American art, exhibitions and educational programs. Current exhibitions include Georgia O'Keeffe in New Mexico and Saya Woolfalk: The Empathics, the first solo museum exhibition by the acclaimed multimedia artist both on view through Jan. 6. This winter, MAM celebrates the centennial of the famous and controversial 1913 Armory Show with a major exhibition. The New Spirit: American Art in the Armory Show, 1913 is the first exhibition to focus primarily on the American artists represented in that show. Original documents and memorabilia are also presented, in collaboration with the Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution. It is on view Feb. 17 ? June 16, 2013. The Montclair Art Museum is located only 12 miles west of NYC and is easily reachable by train, bus or car. MAM is open Wednesdays through Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. montclairartmuseum.org; 973-746-5555. An Event for the Style-Obsessed Jan. 9: Fashion Icons with Fern Mallis: Marc Jacobs 92nd St. Y, Kaufmann Concert Hall Lexington Ave. at 92nd Street, 92y.org, 8 p.m. Join fashion icons Marc Jacobs and Fern Mallis for a fashion-forward lecture on the industry. Jacobs shares his expertise as a two-time CFDA award winner. He has designed everything from men's, women's and children's clothes to eyewear and fragrances. He launched his own company, Marc Jacobs, in 1993. Mallis is an organizer of Fashion Week and has been part of the industry for 32 years. She is also an executive director of the CFDA. Get Your Lotus Moves Jan. 18: Lotus Temple Dancers Mash Up! Laughing Lotus Yoga Center, 59 W. 19th St. #3C, nyc.laughin glouts.com, 7 p.m. Laughing Lotus Senior Teacher and Creative Director Sheri Celentano and the Lotus Temple Dancers lead this music and movement class. Open to yogis of all levels, including those with no prior experience, this event incorporates elements of both dance and yoga. Live music or a DJ will be provided for those itching to get out and groove. Sign up via website recommended. Fashion Abounds Feb. 7?14: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Locations TBD, mbfashionweek.com Yes ladies (and some gents), it's about that time of year when New York City epitomizes its renowned title "fashion capital of the world." Why not take a stroll by Lincoln Center and see if you can spot a few of the top designers or models going to and from various destinations? Want a hint to some well-known "sighting" spots? Try grabbing a bite at the restaurants Goodness or Lincoln, or getting a drink at the Empire Hotel. Who knows, you could make the right friends and sit front-row at a Marc Jacobs show. A Magical Night at the Garden Feb. 8: Passion Pit and Matt & Kim Madison Square Garden, 4 Penn Plaza, bowerypresents.com, Doors: 7 p.m., Show: 8 p.m. This all-ages event showcases the alternative music of Passion Pit. The band kicks off their 2013 tour with this show at Madison Square Garden, and follows the July 2012 release of the band's sophomore album, Gossamer. Led by Michael Angelakos, the band is joined by the Brooklyn-based pop-punk duo Matt & Kim. Tickets start at $42.50. Treat Your Brain Feb. 28: Lecture: Architect Sarah Wigglesworth Cooper Union, Great Hall, 7 E. 7th St., cooperunion.edu, 7 p.m. London-based architect Sarah Wigglesworth brings her architectural knowledge across the pond for a lecture at the Cooper Union. Wigglesworth began her practice in 1994, and is known for combining ecological design elements with inventive materials. Her projects include 9/10 Stock Orchard Street and the Siobhan Davies Dance Studios, and she is the first architect to be awarded the Fulbright Arts Fellowship. It's Not Winter in NYC Unless You Go? Ice Skating at Bryant Park 41 W. 40th St., bryantpark.org, hours vary. Be part of a New York Holiday tradition this winter by enjoying Bryant Park's numerous seasonal activities. Go ice skating on the pond, have a meal at Celsius Restaurant, or enjoy a handcrafted sandwich from 'Wichcraft. After exercising and grabbing a bite, finish up your shopping at the Holiday Shops, which will be open until Jan. 6. Ice skating on the pond continues through March 3. Skates can be rented for $14, and general admission is free. For more serious skaters, professional coaching sessions can be purchased. Call to confirm hours. Not So Typical Love Story Feb. 14: Romance Under the Stars Hayden Planetarium Space Theater, Central Park West at 81st St., amnh.org, 6:30 p.m., $85 Nothing says romance like the planetarium! Seriously, if you and someone you love want to celebrate that special day differently this year, take a romantic stroll to the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History. The Romance Under the Stars package allows you to sip champagne during an open bar cocktail hour and try delicious hors d'oeuvres while the beautiful music of the Josh Rutner Quartet fills the air. Astronomer Ted Williams will then invite you to take a romantic tour of the night sky in the Hayden Planetarium and hear stories of great loves under the stars.