Big Apple Family Takeover
Connection. Celebration. Fundraising for Future Families Through GWK Academy.
A Full Weekend of Family Fun Across New York City
The Big Apple Family Takeover is about showing up as your family — and spending a joyful NYC weekend surrounded by other LGBTQ+ families who get it.
We’ve lined up two days of fun, family-friendly events — from kid-centered activities to relaxed gatherings where parents can connect, laugh, and build real community together.
Every adult ticket includes a $100 donation to GWK Academy, helping ensure that LGBTQ+ people exploring parenthood have access to the trusted education, guidance, and community they need to begin their path to parenthood.
While we’re celebrating together, we’ll also invite those who are able to help us go even further — so more future parents can move forward with clarity, confidence, and support.
Early Bird Pricing Available: Save $100 per adult and $50 per child when you register by June 30.
Come for the connection. Stay for the fun. Help more LGBTQ+ people begin their journey to parenthood.
Itinerary
Saturday, October 10
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Welcome Party
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center
Kick off the weekend with food, non-alcoholic beverages, and plenty of time to connect with other families.
• Drag Bingo, sponsored by HelpUsAdopt.org
• Kid-friendly entertainment and activities
2:00 – 5:00 PM
Family-Friendly Broadway / Off-Broadway Show (to be announced)
As part of the weekend, we’ll attend a family-friendly Broadway show together — a high-energy, joy-filled experience designed to delight both kids and adults. After the performance, our group will be invited to a special talkback with members of the cast.
The specific show will be announced soon, but you can expect something fun, inclusive, and uniquely New York.
6:00 PM
Group Dinner Yard House, Times Square
Join everyone for a relaxed family dinner in the heart of Times Square.
9:00 PM (Optional)
Parents’ Night Out
Co-hosted by Out in Tech Hell’s Kitchen (location to be announced)
For parents who want to keep the evening going while the kids rest up for Sunday.
Sunday, October 11
10:00 AM
A group visit to the iconic Central Park Zoo.
2:00 – 3:30 PM
The Color Factory
An immersive, interactive experience full of color, creativity, and fun for kids and adults alike.
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Farewell Party Sugar Mouse NYC
Snacks will be served and each guest will receive two non-alcoholic drink tickets as we wrap up the weekend together.
Please note: All activities listed above are included in your registration fee. Lodging, transportation to/from events, and meals not specifically listed are not included.
Hotel Room Blocks
Info on our two hotel room blocks will be available here soon.
Help us Choose What Broadway Show to See!
One of the highlights of our Big Apple Family Takeover weekend will be a Broadway show outing. We’ve narrowed it down to four options, but need your help choosing the best one for our families to attend. Will it be Disney magic, pop-powered fun, or laugh-out-loud theater? Please cast your vote in our quick poll.
Aladdin — A magical, high-energy musical filled with dazzling visuals, unforgettable songs, and a thrilling adventure through the streets of Agrabah.
The Play That Goes Wrong — A slapstick (non-musical) comedy where the set, cast, and story all hilariously fall apart.
& Juliet — What if Juliet lived? This is a high-energy musical packed with pop hits.
The Lion King — A visually stunning musical famous for its breathtaking puppetry, elaborate costumes, and iconic songs that bring the African savanna to life.
With sincere thanks to our event partners for their support
