Touch-A-Truck – Orange County Soccer Club

JUNE 29: Kids can learn about their favorite trucks and vehicles, honk their horns and interact with the drivers. Vehicles include a fire truck, police vehicles, construction trucks, vintage cars, and more.

Dates:
Location:
Great Park - City of Irvine 8000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine, CA
Cost:
$17.5

Solar Car Derby at Pretend City

JUNE 29: Kids of all ages can build their own solar car and test it at the Solar Car Races. Watch your car cross the finish line powered by the sun's rays.

Dates:
Location:
Pretend City Children's Museum 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA

Chicken Fest at Hana Field

JUNE 29-30: Join Hana Field for a day of chicken festivities including games, vendors, information, education, adoptions, and meet & greets with real live chickens.

Dates:
Location:
Hana Field 427 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA
Cost:
$5

Calm Morning: Onward at Academy Museum in LA

JUNE 29: Calm Mornings create an environment for all visitors to enjoy sensory-friendly spaces with moderated sound and lighting displays. Join them for sensory-friendly gallery exploration and a family workshop inspired by the accessible screening of Onward (2020).

Dates:
Location:
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 6067 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

Limited-Time Exhibit: Hold Fast at Birch Aquarium

Now - September 2: Hold Fast is an immersive art exhibition that explore the impact of climate change on our local kelp forest through the lens of local artists and scientists.

Dates:
Location:
Birch Aquarium 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA

Amerigo Vespucci and Villagio Italia in Los Angeles

July 3-8: Experience the history and charm of Italy right here in Southern California. Amerigo Vespucci, a nearly 100-year-old Italian naval ship regarded as "the most beautiful ship in the world," will dock in the Port of Los Angeles.

Dates:
Location:
Port of Los Angeles 100 Swinford St., San Pedro, CA
Cost:
Free

YMCA Kid Race in Laguna Niguel

JULY 4: For kids 12 and under. Fee includes a race medal, t-shirt, race photo, pancake breakfast, and access to the expo.

Dates:
Location:
Laguna Niguel CA
Cost:
$30

One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure at OCC Planetarium

JULY 6, JULY 25 and JULY 30: Follow along with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, as they take you on a journey of discovery to learn about the Big Dipper, the North Star, the Sun, and the Moon.

Dates:
Location:
Orange Coast College - Planetarium 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA
Cost:
$6 – $10

Junior Aviators Day! at Planes of Fame Air Museum

JULY 6: Enjoy a day of activities, like building planes, playing in bubbles, learning how aircrafts are built, and the EAA is offering a free introductory flight for kids for kids ages 8-17 (first-come, first-served)

Dates:
Location:
Planes of Fame Air Museum 14998 Cal Aero Drive, Chino
Cost:
Free – $15

Tanabata Star Festival at Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, CSULB

SUNDAY, JULY 7: According to legend, the two starts Orihime and Hikoboshi, which are usually separated from each other by the Milky Way, are able to meet. Visit the garden for giveaways, crafts, & music.

Dates:
Location:
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, CSULB 1250 N. Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach, CA
Cost:
Free

Teddy Bear Picnic at Pretend City

JULY 10: Bring your favorite cuddly friend and join Pretend City for a fun-filled adventure that combines art, play, and the joy of picnicking with your furry companions.

Dates:
Location:
Pretend City Children's Museum 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA

Summer Play Dates: Princess Tea Party at MainPlace Mall Santa Ana

JULY 10: Sing songs and take photos with your favorite storybook princess, then decorate your own prince / princess crown to take home. For children ages 4-12.

Dates:
Location:
MainPlace Mall 2800 N Main St. C, Santa Ana, CA

Nixon Summer Nights: Magic Show at Nixon Library in Yorba Linda

JULY 11: Enjoy a night of illusions and thrills with Magic-Ian. Food and beverage available for purchase. Meal plan option also offered.

Dates:
Location:
Richard Nixon Presidential Library 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, CA
Cost:
Free

Maestro of the Movies: John Williams with LA Phil at Hollywood Bowl

JULY 12-14: John Williams has composed some of the most popular, recognizable, and critically acclaimed film scores in cinema history including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, Jaws, Jurassic Park, and more.

Dates:
Location:
Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA

Bubble Bash at Long Beach Towne Center

July 12: Play in a foam zone, explore bubble stations, and enjoy games, giveaways, and live entertainment at this summer celebration. Character meet and greets included!

Dates:
Location:
Long Beach Towne Center 7575 Carson Blvd., Long Beach
Cost:
Free

Movie Mondays: Pitch Perfect at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

JULY 12: Enjoy hit movies, engaging pre-movie activities, and connect with partner organizations at their info booths. Treat yourself to tasty food truck offerings, refreshing drinks from George’s Café, or bring your own picnic dinner. Plus, don’t miss the chance to win exciting prizes!

Dates:
Location:
Segerstrom Center for the Arts 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Cost:
Free

Mythical Creature Mask Making: Family Workshop at the Getty Villa

JULY 13 - AUGUST 17: Explore the art of ancient Greek theater masks in this free drop-in workshop. Create and wear masks inspired by mythological creatures found in the Getty Villa’s collections. Then join local performers portraying Medusa and the Minotaur for theatrical play in this interactive program.

Location:
Getty Villa Museum 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA
Cost:
Free

Brick Fest Live in Pasadena

JULY 13-14: Build, play, and laugh at America's largest LEGO event. Brick Fest Live is filled with hands-on attractions and activities. View incredible LEGO sculptures, shop exclusive merch, participate in building activities, photo ops, and more.

Dates:
Location:
Pasadena Convention Center 300 E. Green Street, Pasadena

1st Annual Los Angeles International Folklorico Festival

JULY 13-14: This groundbreaking event brings together talented folklorico troupes to showcase the beauty of Mexican folk dance. Marvel at the energy and passion of LA's best folklorico dancers!

Dates:
Location:
Downey Theatre 8435 Firestone Blvd., Downey, CA
Cost:
$35

Shark Summer at Birch Aquarium

July 10 - August 7: Explore shark science, feeding sessions, hands-on stations, and trivia nights (July 17 & 31) during Shark Summer. Enjoy ocean views, themed drinks, and pop-up science (July 10, 24 & August 7).

Dates:
Location:
Birch Aquarium 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA

Book Arts Bonanza at the Print Museum

JULY 13: Get ready for some creative family time! Join us for a half-day “makers workshop” this summer that encourages the exploration of the world of book artistry. This hands-on family workshop features artistic bookbinding, paper making, letterpress printing, and rubber stamping.

Dates:
Location:
International Printing Museum 315 W. Torrance Blvd., Carson, CA
Cost:
$25

Los Angeles Lighthouse Challenge

JULY 13: Visit three lighthouses and three Fresnal lenses in one day. Collect stamps at each participating location and pick up a prize at the end of the day.

Dates:
Location:
Point Fermin Lighthouse 807 W. Paseo del Mar, San Pedro, CA
Cost:
Free

Boots & Bustles: A Victorian Experience at Heritage Museum of Orange County

JULY 13: An immersive Victorian Faire with living history displays, food stalls, a 1898 Kellogg House tour, craft demos and more. Journey through the museum grounds from the polished Victorian Society in the historic building plaza, to the rugged Western Pioneer and Frontierland surrounding the Blacksmith Shop and natural areas. 

Dates:
Location:
Heritage Museum of Orange County 3101 W. Harvard Steet, Santa Ana

The OC Book Fair in Old Town Tustin

JULY 13: Explore a world of independent booksellers, publishers, and bookish vendors. The event features author talks, book signings, activities for kids of all ages, storytime and more.

Dates:
Location:
Old Town Tustin 245 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA
Cost:
Free

Urban Workshop’s 10th Anniversary Open House

JULY 13: Join Urban Workshop to celebrate a decade as OC's largest DIY makerspace and workshop. This free, family-friendly event features live demonstrations, raffles, food, drinks, and facility tours. 

Dates:
Location:
Urban Workshop 365-A Clinton St., Costa Mesa, CA
Cost:
Free

Summer Soulstice in Santa Monica

JULY 13: Enjoy live performances, beer garden, pop-up art gallery, skateboarding and roller skating pop up, pet zone, and kids activities including sports demos, face painting, and musical story time.

Dates:
Location:
Main Street, Santa Monica Main St., Santa Monica, CA
Cost:
Free

Celebration of Indian Culture at Bowers Museum

JULY 14: Celebrate Indian culture with family-friendly activities including face painting, art projects with Indian textile prints and mandala making, Indian sweet sampling, and musical and dance performances.

Dates:
Location:
Bowers Museum 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA
Cost:
Free

Celebration of India at Bower’s Museum

JULY 14: The entire family is invited to enjoy free face painting, art projects and a sampling of an Indian sweet. Listen to the sounds of a Sitar musician and embark on a musical journey with techno and traditional music.

Dates:
Location:
Bowers Museum 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA
Cost:
Free

OC Fair in Costa Mesa

JULY 19 - AUGUST 18: The OC Fair is excited to welcome you back to "Always a Good Time”! Get up close with animals in the petting zoo, check out exhibits, go shopping, and enjoy local groups performing on community stages.

Dates:
Location:
OC Fair & Event Center 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Cost:
$9 – $15

Open Clay Time at Craft Contemporary

FRIDAYS, JUNE 7 - SEPTEMBER 6: Join Craft Contemporary on Fridays throughout the summer for an airdry clay workshop. Try your hand at a selection of clay projects using simple sculpting and joining techniques. All ages welcome.

Dates:
Open Clay Time at Craft Contemporary
Location:
Craft Contemporary 5814 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA

FUN-tastic Family Night – Mad Science LA: Up, Up and Away in Lakewood

JULY 19: A Mad Scientist will demonstrate the qualities of air pressure in this science action show, audience will have the opportunity to interact and participate. Food will be served prior to show. 

Dates:
Location:
The Centre in Lakewood 5000 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA
Cost:
$12 – $15

Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert at Hollywood Bowl

JULY 19-20: Highlighting songs and clips from the iconic Disney films of the 1980s and 1990s, special guest singers join up with orchestra for unforgettable favorites from The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King, Mulan, Toy Story, A Bug’s Life, Hocus Pocus, Newsies, A Goofy Movie, and so much more.

Location:
Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA

Free Girls Basketball Camp in Long Beach

JULY 20: Join Lauren Cummings and several Long Beach State players for a fun, exciting day of basketball. Training, skills and drills for players (1st-6th grade) of all levels.

Dates:
Location:
Salvation Army Community Center 3000 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach, CA
Cost:
Free

Corn-O-Copia Harvest Food Festival at Tanaka Farms

JULY 20-21: Join Tanaka Farms for a weekend full of everyone's favorite summer treat. Enjoy roasted corn, brisket elote bowl, Korean corn cheese, roasted corn pico, plus live entertainment.

Dates:
Location:
Tanaka Farms 5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine

Bike Rodeo in El Monte

JULY 20: The Bike Rodeo is open to all ages. Activities include bike tire inflation competition, bike skills course, learn to bike, and more. Don't have a bike? Bikes are available to borrow and check-out when you register.

Dates:
Location:
Whittier Narrows Recreational Area 750 S. Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte, CA
Cost:
Free

Little Bloomers Art Expo at LBX in Long Beach

JULY 20: Visit LBX for a market featuring local makers, eats, brews, live music, face painting, and photo ops. Plus an art expo with a gallery of student artwork, drawing lessons, painting tutorials, and free giveaways of sketchbooks, pencils, erasers, and stickers.

Dates:
Location:
Long Beach Exchange (LBX) Long Beach
Cost:
Free

ArtLab at Hammer Museum

SATURDAYS: Drop by Art Lab for hands-on creative activities inspired by artworks on view at the museum.

Dates:
ArtLab at Hammer Museum
Location:
Hammer Museum 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
Cost:
Free

Midsummer Foodie Fest in Anaheim

JULY 20: Join Downtown Anaheim and Anaheim Packing District for Make Music Day - a worldwide celebration of music! Enjoy live performances from local artists, shop music merch, munch on some great food, and take part in hands-on music workshops.

Dates:
Location:
West Center Street Promenade 201 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, CA

90s Neon Night & Silent Disco at Long Beach Exchange

SATURDAY, JULY 20: Step back into the 90s for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy a silent disco playing 90s and today's hits, live band (7-9pm), glow stick party with complimentary glow sticks, face painting, activities, and photo ops.

Dates:
Location:
Long Beach Exchange (LBX) Long Beach
Cost:
Free

The Old Man and the Old Moon at Mission San Juan Capistrano

JULY 20 - AUGUST 11: An epic adventure across land, sea and sky–all in the name of love! Indie-folk music and ingenious staging transform this tall tale into a thrilling theatrical event like no other. In the old man's quest to find his wife, he encounters colorful characters, gets caught in an apocalyptic storm and is swallowed by a giant fish.

Dates:
Location:
Mission San Juan Capistrano 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, CA

Toddler Time with Laguna Ocean Foundation at Rivian South Coast Theater

JULY 24: Meet and walk to the beach where kids will participate in a story of mimicking ocean creatures through modified yoga poses. After yoga, head back to the theater for light snacks and craft activity.

Dates:
Location:
Rivian South Coast Theater 162 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA
Cost:
Free

Play for All Abilities at Southern California Children’s Museum

JULY 25: Play for All Abilities is meant to welcome and create space for children and families with developmental differences. These play sessions will feature limited stimuli and intentional programming.

Dates:
Location:
Southern California Children's Museum 459 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA

Disclaimer: The Kidsguide team does their best to keep event details accurate at the time of posting, but information can change without notice! Be sure to double-check with the event organizer before heading out. Kidsguide is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or changes on our calendar—we’re just here to help you find the fun!


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