Out of Here Calendar of Events Outside of Rye

– Compiled by Sarah Martin –

AUGUST 1
Down by the River

Van Cortlandt Manor’s River Day is devoted to the history and ecology of the area’s watershed. The festival runs from noon-6 p.m. and is sponsored by Fujifilm. Enjoy kayak rides, performances and educational hands-on activities about the area’s fragile watershed for all ages.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras, capture the event and post their best work on Flickr for a chance to win one of three Fuji cameras. Top prize is a Fujifilm FinePix HS-10.
Admission is $12 for adults; $10 for seniors and $6 for children 5-17. Purchase tickets at www.hudsonvalley.org

AUGUST 4
Arts and Crafts

On three consecutive Wednesdays in August gather the family together for fun art activities at the Bruce Museum from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. These self-guided programs begin with a gallery hunt through the exhibition, “The Dressmaker’s Art: Highlights from the Bruce Museum’s Costume Collection”, followed by related art-making activities in the Education Workshop.
Create paper-bag hats on August 4, fancy fans on August 11 and Victorian paper dolls on August 18. All activities are free with museum admission. For more information, call 203-869-0376.

AUGUST 5
All that Jazz

Catch the spectacular Westchester Jazz Orchestra in a free summer concert at 6 p.m. at Lyndhurst in Tarrytown. The beautiful and historic setting overlooking the Hudson provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy this band’s extraordinary music.

The WJO’s 2010-11 season begins September 25 with a tribute to Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Michael Brecker, with legendary trumpeter Randy Brecker as a guest.
For more information, log on to www.westjazzorch.org or call 861-9100.

AUGUST 6
Stealing the Show

The Jacob Burns Film Center presents a new series, “The Big Score: The Greatest Heist Films,” from August 6 through September 2. These stylish films deliver the pure cinematic thrill of seeing an intricately planned scheme take place and, more often than not, fall apart at the seams.
Films include “Charley Varrick”, “High Sierra”, “Rififi”, “Criss Cross”, “The Asphalt Jungle”, “Three Kings”, “The Hot Rock”, “The Lavender Hill Mob”, “The Bank Job”, “The Outfit”, “Ocean’s 11”, “The Killing”, “To Catch a Thief” and “Reservoir Dogs”.
Log on to www.burnsfilmcenter.org.

AUGUST 7
Community Health

In celebration of National Community Health Center Week, Open Door Family Medical Centers will host the 4th Annual Port Chester Community Health Fair on Purdy Avenue from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The annual family event includes free health screenings provided by English- and Spanish-speaking health care providers, community vendors, a tour of Open Door's brand new Wellness Center, children's activities and giveaways, including brand new Halloween costumes, raffles and prizes.

This event is free and health screenings will run through 2 p.m. Call 502-1339 or log on to www.opendoormedical.org.

AUGUST 8
Nature Close-Up

Hike with Jeff Cordulack from Audubon Greenwich in search of great nature photos at the Fairchild Wildflower Garden on North Porchuck Road from 10-11:30 a.m. The focus will be on flowers, insects and scenic photos. This event is ideal for learning basic composition and close-up photo techniques. Cost is $5 per person.

From 2-4 p.m., watch a screening of “What's On Your Plate?”, a film about healthier school lunches. Cost is $10. RSVP is required for both events; call 203-869-5272, ext. 239.

AUGUST 8
Cuban Culture

An afternoon of Cuban fun awaits families at the Katonah Museum of Art from 1-4 p.m. Enjoy hands-on art projects and gallery activities throughout the day. At 1:30 p.m., meet illustrator Edel Rodriguez, who will read from his books: “Mama does the Mambo”, “Oye, Celia! A Song for Celia Cruz” and “Sergio Saves the Game!” Then learn to salsa with dancer Desiree Sanchez Meineck at 2:30 p.m.

This event is free to KMA members, $5 non-members (ages 3 and up). For more information, log on to www.katonahmuseum.org or call 232-9555.

AUGUST 22
“The Great Muppet Caper”

Jim Henson’s second live-action Muppet feature stars Kermit, Fozzie and Gonzo as investigative reporters hot on the trail of a jewel thief. Filled with corny jokes and musical numbers, it’s just plain fun for everyone.
Screenings are August 14, 15, 21 and 22 at noon. For more information, call 747-5555.

AUGUST 22
Another World

Experience traditional Chinese culture with the Shen Yun Performing Arts group, a brilliant blend of beauty, energy and grace, at 7 p.m. in the Concert Hall at the Purchase College Performing Arts Center.

Watch as dozens of dancers in dazzling costumes move in seamless, flowing patterns. Thunderous drums shake the stage, while spectacular backdrops take you to another world. See ancient legends of virtue brought to life alongside modern tales of courage and hear soaring songs by masterful vocalists that move and inspire.
For more information, log on to www.artscenter.org or call 251-6200.