Kidsguide

Free Week of Classes at Platinum Performing Arts
2025-08-25 - 2025-08-29 | Platinum Performing Arts, 1972 N. Tustin, Orange, CA, 92865
Platinum is hosting a Free Week of classes from August 25-29.
Try any and all classes all week long to see which ones your star student loves most!
Visit their website to sign up for Free Week today! (Plus, all new students get a Free Trial Class anytime of the year! Just enroll and select “trial” to try out a class!)

Free Summer Lunch Cruises in Long Beach Shoreline Village
2025-08-25, 2025-08-27 | Shoreline Village, 401-435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, 90802
Wednesdays, July 9 – August 27, 2025
Enjoy a FREE 30 minute harbor cruise with purchase of lunch “to go” from participating restaurants every Wednesday through the end of August.
You must pre-order with the individual restaurant to reserve your seats. Participating restaurants for 2024 are:

Shenanigans
Tugboat Pete’s
Gilan Pizza

Boarding passes will be received with your lunch order from the restaurant before boarding the boat.
Participants will board the Spirit Cruise ship at Dock 9 near Parker’s Lighthouse.
RESERVATION IS REQUIRED. Call participating restaurants (Shenanigans, Tugboat Pete’s or Gilan Pizza) to make reservation and place orders. Pick up orders and boarding pass at restaurant.

Summertime Sailor Days at the Maritime Museum of San Diego
2025-08-27 | Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, 92101
Tuesdays & Wednesdays, July 1 – August 27, 2025
The Maritime Museum’s popular summertime program is back, inviting visitors to step into the role of a traditional sailor aboard the historic Star of India. Families can take part in hands-on activities like furling sail, ropemaking, knot-tying, and hauling lines, plus enjoy a family scavenger hunt with a prize from the ship’s treasure chest.
All activities are included with general admission, and guests can also explore the Museum’s fleet and exhibitions. For an extra $10, visitors can hop aboard the 1914 Pilot for a narrated 45-minute Historic Bay Tour, offered first-come, first-served.
Highlights include:

Furling sail, ropemaking, and knot-tying
Hauling lines aboard the Star of India
Family scavenger hunt with prize
Access to museum fleet and exhibits
Optional 45-minute Historic Bay Tour ($10)

Runs 10am–2pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Included with general admission.

Marinelli Bros Circus in Downey
2025-08-27 - 2025-09-15 | Stonewood Center, 251 Stonewood St., Downey, CA, 90241
August 27 – September 15, 2025
The Marinelli Bros. Circus debuts its 2025 production, “A New Experience,” featuring aerialists, stunt performers, and world-class acts under the Big Top. The two-hour, family-friendly show offers VIP seating, on-site food and drinks, and discounts for seniors and military, with free admission for kids under two.

Imaginarium Opening Day at Lakewood Mall
2025-08-28
August 28 – November 9, 2025
An immersive wonderland at Lakewood Center where reality bends and magic comes alive. Wander through ten realms featuring enchanted gardens glowing with five million lights and surreal indoor spaces designed for dreamlike exploration.

California Jammin' 2025 at the Muzeo in Anaheim
2025-08-28 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 92805
Thursday, August 28, 2025
The 2025 California Jammin’ series continues with a free outdoor concert in Carnegie Plaza featuring Rhythmo Mariachi Academy. Dedicated to preserving Hispanic cultural heritage, the academy teaches youth the art and history of mariachi music. Guests can bring lawn chairs and picnics or grab dinner nearby, enjoy kids’ arts and crafts, and purchase beer, wine, and concessions. Gates open at 6pm; show starts at 6:30pm.

Irvine Nights at The Great Park Live
2025-08-28 18:00 - 22:00 | Great Park Live, 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA, 92618
Thursdays, August 7-28, 2025
Get ready for the best in live entertainment, delicious food and drinks, and vibrant community spirit. Dive into a lively atmosphere for nights of fun, vendors, and kids bounce houses. Each night a different performer will be playing, check the website to RSVP.
Event is free with RSVP. Reserved seating area and VIP options available.

Orange International Street Fair
2025-08-29 - 2025-08-31 | Old Town Orange, 300 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, CA, 92866, United States
August 29-31, 2025
Food, music, entertainment, and arts and crafts from cultures and ethnicities throughout the world.
The street fair features:

15 ethnic streets with 42 food and drink booths
Handmade arts and crafts section featuring local artists and their crafts
A street dedicated to kids with crafts and games
Community Booth section showcasing local non-profits
Commercial Section featuring local companies
7 stages of entertainment

Asian Garden Night Market in Westminster
2025-08-29 - 2025-08-31 | Asian Garden Mall, 9200 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, CA, 92683
Weekends, June 13 – August 31, 2025
The popular Asian Garden Night Market returns for summer weekends filled with food, shopping, and culture. Since 2011, this outdoor event has brought the energy of traditional Asian night markets to Westminster.
Families can stroll through vendor booths offering skincare, clothing, accessories, and toys—while the main draw remains the variety of tasty Vietnamese street food. Live music sets the scene for a lively evening outing.
Activities include:

Vietnamese street food vendors
Shopping for skincare, clothes & toys
Live music performances
Outdoor evening strolls & bites

Held in the front plaza of the mall. Free to attend and open to all ages.

626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park
2025-08-29 - 2025-08-31 | Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, 91007
August 22-24, 29-31 2025
Food lovers and families alike can head to Santa Anita Park for the iconic 626 Night Market—a massive outdoor festival inspired by the open-air night bazaars of Asia. Expect an evening packed with delicious eats, shopping, games, and live entertainment.
With hundreds of food vendors, artists, crafters, and performers, there’s something for everyone—from adventurous snacks to handmade goods and interactive attractions. It’s a festive, high-energy experience that brings the community together under the night sky.
Activity highlights include:

Food vendors from all cuisines
Artists, makers, and pop-up shops
Games and interactive experiences
Live music and entertainment

Norco Fair
2025-08-29 - 2025-09-01 | Ingalls Event Center, 3737 Crestview Drive, Norco, CA, 92860
August 29 – September 1, 2025
The Norco Fair returns for four days of music, rodeo action, food, and family fun. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, bull riding, mower races, vendors, and plenty of kid-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
In addition to the fairgrounds fun, special events include a Pet Parade, Jr. Livestock Show & Auction, Labor Day Parade, Community Competition, and Family Fun Day.
Highlights include:

Live music and entertainment
Rodeo and bull riding
Mower races and vendors
Kid-friendly activities
Parades, livestock shows, and contests
Miss Norco Pageant

Piñata Fest: A Celebration of Paper Mache & Paper Art at MASARTE Gallery in Santa Ana
2025-08-29 - 2025-09-07 | MASARTE Gallery, 1666 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA, 92701
August 29–31 & September 6–7, 202
Piñata Fest is back for two weekends of bright, playful fun at MASARTE Gallery. From classic piñatas to big sculptural pieces, you’ll find paper mache and paper art in all kinds of creative forms.
The exhibit highlights the work of artists including My Little Piñatas, Frank Ordoñez, Pocha Peña, Victor Payan, Alicia Gracida, Skeith De Wine, Joseph Moreno, Michelle Wright, and more.

Be Like Blippi Pop Up at Discovery Cube in Sylmar
2025-08-29 - 2025-09-28 | Discovery Cube – Los Angeles, 11800 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar, CA, 91342, United States
August 29 – September 28, 2025
Blippi-themed experience with interactive zones, games, dress-up activities, and photo opportunities. The event kicks off with a special live appearance by Blippi on opening day (August 29, 2025) before continuing through the end of September.

Wild Tales at Upper Newport Bay in Newport Beach
2025-08-29 10:00 | Upper Newport Bay, 2301 University Dr., Newport Beach, CA, 92660
Every Friday, January – August, 2026
Upper Newport Bay’s long running and popular story time is back! Wild tales is offered every Friday and include an outdoor story time in the newly-renovated amphitheater, an age-appropriate hike, and a craft project in the classroom. Each session will have a new story, hike theme, and craft project.
Activities are designed for ages 2-4 but all are welcome.

16th Birthday Celebration at Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine
2025-08-29 11:00 - 15:00 | Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA, 92618
Friday, August 29, 2025
Pretend City is turning 16 and inviting families to celebrate with a day of play, music, dancing, and hands-on activities. Guests can join in the festivities and enjoy special birthday-themed fun throughout the museum.
Highlights include:

Live music and dancing
Interactive activities and games
Birthday-themed surprises

Event runs 11am–3pm. RSVP and purchase tickets ahead of time.

Labor Day Community BBQ & Concert in the Park in Artesia
2025-08-29 18:00 - 20:00 | AJ Padelford Park (Artesia), 11870 169th St., Artesia, CA, 90701
Friday, August 29, 2025
Enjoy a concert in the park and free bbq (while supplies last).

Flashback Fridays at Shoreline Village in Long Beach
2025-08-29 18:00 - 22:00 | Shoreline Village, 401-435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, 90802
Fridays, July 4 – August 29, 2025
The waterfront comes alive every Friday night with decade-themed music at Flashback Fridays. From 70s disco to 2000s hits, each week features live bands or DJs spinning the soundtrack of a different era. Guests can dance under the stars, snap themed photos, and enjoy food and drinks from Shoreline Village’s eateries.
Line-up:

July 4 – DJ Leo (80s music)
July 11 – DJ Leo (2000s music)
July 18 – Sugar Lips (70s disco)
July 25 – As If (90s music)
August 1 – Sugar Lips (70s disco)
August 8 – So Rad (90s music)
August 15 – DJ Leo (2000s music)
August 22 – As If (90s music)
August 29 – Goldstein Party of Five (80s music)

Event runs 6–10pm. Free and open to all ages; parking additional.

Family Hike at Black Star Canyon | Irvine Ranch Open Space
2025-08-30 | Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, 12247 Black Star Canyon Rd., Silverado, CA, 92676
Saturdays, March – April 2026
Enjoy a guided family hike through Black Star Canyon in the Irvine Ranch Open Space. This easy, slower-paced outing follows a mostly flat trail, crosses a dry creek bed, and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife such as red-tailed hawks and mule deer along the way.
The hike averages 3–4 miles round trip and includes a medium level of interpretation, making it ideal for families and participants who prefer a relaxed pace. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring water.

Is the event free?
Registration required. Please check with OC Parks for current information.
Where is the event located?
Family Hikes are located at different trails. See website for more information.

Before You Go: Visit OC Parks for registration details and updated event information. Kidsguide is an independent community resource helping families discover fun events across Southern California.
Looking for more family fun? Explore more family-friendly events on our blog, browse our calendar, check out limited-time exhibits and experiences, or subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live at Toyota Arena in Ontario
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Toyota Arena, 4000 E. Ontario Center Pkwy., Ontario, 91764
Saturday & Sunday August 30-31, 2025
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire brings fan-favorite trucks like Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, Gunkster, and the new Skelesaurus to life in an action-packed show.
Celebrate Bigfoot’s birthday, watch a transforming robot, and catch freestyle motocross stunts.
Fans can join the Power Smashers Pre-Show Party to see the trucks up close and meet drivers or upgrade to the VIP Backstage Experience for a behind-the-scenes tour and exclusive merchandise.

Huntington Beach Civil War Days
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Huntington Beach Central Park, 18381 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, CA, 92648
August 30-31, 2025
The Huntington Beach Historical Society’s annual Civil War Days is back for its 32nd year, bringing the 160th anniversary of America’s Civil War to life. Visitors can explore encampments, meet reenactors, and watch live battle demonstrations throughout the weekend.
The event features presentations, historic displays, and music, plus appearances by figures like President Lincoln and General Grant. Both days are packed with activities, from talks on military life and historical weapons to full-scale battle reenactments.
Free and open to the public. Takes place in Huntington Beach Central Park, behind the library.

K-PLAY! Fest at the Anaheim Convention Center
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Anaheim Convention Center, 800 West Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA, 92802
AUGUST 30-31, 2025
FAN HOSTED K-POP festival – For Fans, By Fans! Experience K-pop with like-minded fans, share the love for your biases together, and learn more about Korean culture all at the same time. Enjoy photocard decoration & trading areas, random dance play sessions, meet some of your favorite K-pop creators, and check out our Artist Alley full of K-pop fan artists!
Admission is $20-$30.

Anime Impulse at the Anaheim Convention Center
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Anaheim Convention Center, 800 West Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA, 92802
August 30-31, 2025
This weekend-long celebration brings together fans of anime, manga, video games, and pop culture with a packed lineup of voice actors, Vtubers, concerts, panels, and special guests.
Explore a massive Artist Alley and Vendor Hall, catch exciting live performances, and connect with fellow fans in a high-energy, inclusive space designed for creativity and fandom.
Ticket to Anime Impulse gets you into K-Play! Fest and Collectors Expo.

Gelato Festival World Masters at Ovation Hollywood
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Ovation Hollywood, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA, 90028
August 30-31, 2025
The world’s best gelato chefs take over Ovation Hollywood for a weekend of tastings, competitions, and sweet fun. Guests can sample original gelato recipes created just for the tournament, learn the stories behind each flavor, and vote for their favorite in the Tasting Village.
Highlights include:

Gelato tastings and chef meet-and-greets
Vote for your favorite flavor
Cooking demos and eating contests
Guest pastry chef presentations
Partner and sponsor product sampling

Buy tickets here.

Long Beach Comic Con
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Long Beach Convention Center, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, 90802
August 30-31, 2025
Long Beach Comic Con brings together comics, art, cosplay, and pop culture for a two-day celebration. Fans can meet writers, artists, and illustrators, browse the exhibit floor, and enjoy panels and screenings.
The weekend also includes live experiences, celebrity signings, and plenty of opportunities for cosplay fun.

Long Beach Greek Festival
2025-08-30 - 2025-09-01 | Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 5761 E. Colorado Street, Long Beach, CA, 90814, United States
August 30 – September 1, 2025
Enjoy authentic Greek food, live Greek music and dancing, cooking demonstrations, shopping, and more. Families can also enjoy games and bounce houses.
Free parking and shuttle rides to and from the festival at VA Hospital parking lot.
Admission is $5

Free Fishing Days with California Department of Fish and Wildlife
2025-08-30 | California, CA
Saturday, July 5 & Saturday, August 30, 2025
New to fishing? Free Fishing Days are the perfect chance to give it a try—no license needed! On these two days, families can fish at lakes, rivers, or city parks without the usual sport fishing license.
It’s a great way to experience the excitement of fishing for the first time, with opportunities to learn about fish habits, tackle, ethics, and how to clean your catch. Some regions even offer special clinics and city programs for beginners.

No license required to fish
Open to all ages and skill levels
Clinics available in select regions
All standard fishing regulations still apply

Note: A report card is still required when fishing for steelhead, sturgeon, or salmon in specific river systems.

Public Star Party at the Griffith Observatory in LA
2025-08-30 14:00 - 21:30 | Griffith Observatory, 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles, 90027
November 22 & December 20, 2025
Families can explore the sky together at this monthly event hosted on the Observatory lawn. With dozens of telescopes available, guests can view the Sun, Moon, planets, and more with the help of local astronomy groups.
Activities include:

Day and night telescope viewing
Chats with amateur astronomers
Hands-on astronomy experiences

Telescopes are open 2-9:45pm. Observatory building closes at 10pm. Entry is free; lines for telescopes may close early to ensure everyone gets a turn.

Labubu Character Meet & Greet at MainPlace Mall Santa Ana
2025-08-30 14:30 - 16:30 | MainPlace Mall, 2800 N Main St. C, Santa Ana, CA, 92705
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Kick off the school year with a special surprise! The beloved character Labubu is making an appearance at MainPlace Mall for a family-friendly meet & greet. Fans of all ages can snap a photo, share a hug, and make magical memories, no purchase necessary.
Free, first-come, first-served.

Barnyard Birthday Bash at Tanaka Farms
2025-08-30 17:00 - 21:00 | Tanaka Farms, 5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, 92612
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Tanaka Farms’ Barnyard Educational Exhibit is turning six, and the farm is throwing a birthday bash to celebrate! Families can enjoy a backyard-style evening with a BBQ cookout, line dancing, and fun games like cornhole, plus photo ops with barnyard animals.
Dinner will be served from 5–7pm with a menu of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, mac & cheese, corn, watermelon, salad, and drinks.
Highlights include:

BBQ cookout dinner (5–7pm)
Line dancing and music
Cornhole and family games
Photo ops with barnyard animals

Party starts at 5pm. Admission proceeds benefit the care of the animals.
