Kidsguide

Wild Tales at Upper Newport Bay in Newport Beach
2026-01-02 10:00, 2026-01-09 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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.

Winter-Break Camps at My Gym in Long Beach
2026-01-02 12:00 - 16:00 | My Gym Long Beach, 3287 Industry Dr., Signal Hill, CA, 90755
Experience the ultimate camp adventure right in your town! My Gym Long Beach’s Camp is a non-stop thrill where fun knows no limits.
Kids dive into electrifying games, heart-racing relays, creative arts and crafts, music that sets their spirits soaring, and a whole universe of excitement. Every camp program is meticulously crafted to keep your little ones on the move and ignited with energy.
With a hassle-free drop-off, flexible pay-by-the-day choices, and unbeatable multi-day discounts, My Gym Long Beach ensures unforgettable action for both kids and parents!

Upcoming Camps
Fri. Dec. 19th
Tue. Dec. 23rd
Tue. Dec. 30th
Wed. Dec. 31st
Thu. Jan. 1st
Fri. Jan. 2nd
All 12-4 PM

Family Hike at Black Star Canyon | Irvine Ranch Open Space
2026-01-03, 2026-01-10 | 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.

Family Science Sunday | Marine Mammal Care Center, San Pedro
2026-01-04, 2026-01-11 | Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles, 3601 South Gaffey Street, #8, San Pedro, CA, 90731
Sundays, January – April, 2026
Join the Marine Mammal Care Center every Sunday for an hour-long, hands-on science experience guided by marine experts. Families can explore ocean conservation, marine mammal rescue, climate science, animal anatomy, acoustics, and more. Admission includes full access to the visitor center, interactive exhibits, and patient viewing windows. Workshops are free, and spots fill quickly, early reservations are encouraged. Ages 8+ recommended; adults must accompany children 13 and under.
Topics
1/4 | Marine Mammal Rescue Squad
1/11 | Marine Mammal Medics
1/18 | Marine Mammal Researchers
1/25 | The Acidification Adventure
2/1 | Underwater Sound Lab
2/8 | Fin-tastic Fish Friends (Fish Dissection)
2/15 | Inkcredible Squid Science (Squid Dissection)
2/22 | Tiny Ocean Drifters (Plankton Lab)
3/1 | Amazing Algae
3/8 | Meet the Flipper Friends
3/15 | Secrets of the Whales
3/22 | Polar Bear Pals
3/29 | Sea Otter Guardians
4/12 | Mermaids of the Sea Grass (Manatees)
4/19 | Meet Your Ocean Neighbors
11 AM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM | Free with reservation

Animé Los Angeles | Long Beach Convention Center
2026-01-08 - 2026-01-11 | Long Beach Convention Center, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, 90802
January 8–11, 2026
Animé Los Angeles returns for its 21st year—celebrating a major milestone with its 20th anniversary. Fans can dive into four days packed with live entertainment, concerts, cosplay events, industry panels, a fashion show, idol showcases, dances, a maid café, and an enormous Exhibit Hall and Artist Alley. Special guests include voice actors, creators, cosplayers, and industry pros, plus nightly dances and the iconic ALA Masquerade. A pre-con “Evening on Deck” at the Queen Mary invites attendees to pick up badges early and enjoy a cosplay-friendly mixer. Registration required.

Centennial Farm Discovery Days
2026-01-09 08:00 - 17:00 | Centennial Farm, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Select Dates, September 30, 2025 – June 1, 2026
Centennial Farm Discovery Days program is an unguided tour program offered on the dates below and is open to all grade levels and ages.
During a Discovery Day, “farmers” are stationed around the farm available to answer questions and provide information.
Upon check-in, you will receive a map to aid you in getting around and seeing all Centennial Farm has to offer. They also offer an opportunity for children to pet a chick and plant a radish seed.
2025/2026 Centennial Farm Discovery Day Dates (9 a.m. to noon):
Tuesday, Sept. 30
Friday, Oct. 31
Tuesday, Nov. 18
Monday, Dec. 16
Friday, Jan. 9
Wednesday, Feb. 4
Thursday, Feb. 26
Friday, March 6
Tuesday, March 24
Thursday, April 2
Wednesday, April 22
Tuesday, May 5
Monday, May 18
Monday, June 1
There is no charge for parking or admission during Centennial Farm Discovery Days, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Friday Fun | Madrona Marsh Nature Center, Torrance
2026-01-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Madrona Marsh Preserve, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, CA, 90503, United States
Every Friday
A weekly hands-on program for preschoolers ages 3–6 and their parents or guardians. Each session features story time, science, art, and a themed tour through the Nature Center. Some weeks may also include potting or additional hands-on activities. Topics focus on caring for living things and fostering early stewardship of the planet.
Pre-registration is required and opens Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Space is limited to the first 20 participants.

Movie Night: Elio | Garfield Community Center, Santa Ana
2026-01-09 15:30 - 17:30 | Garfield Community Center – Santa Ana, 501 N Lacy St., Santa Ana, CA, 92701
January 9, 2026
Teens are invited to unwind at the library with snacks and a special screening of Elio. Enjoy a laid-back afternoon with a mix of new releases, nostalgic favorites, and underrated picks chosen just for teens. No registration or tickets are required, just show up and enjoy. For more information, call 714-571-4238.
Event is free.

Movies Under the Stars | Kelly Park, Compton
2026-01-09 17:30 | Kelly Park – Compton, 2329 E Caldwell St., Compton, CA, 90220
Friday, January 9, 2026
Enjoy a free family movie night hosted by the Southern California Junior Cricket Academy. Settle in under the evening sky for a screening of Fire in Babylon, celebrating the legacy and resilience of the legendary West Indies cricket team. Guests can enjoy complimentary pizza and drinks, music, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for a cozy outdoor setup. Photos and video may be taken during the event for community storytelling.

Astronomy Night | Columbia Space Memorial Center, Downey
2026-01-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Columbia Memorial Space Center, 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA, 90242
Friday, January 9, 2026
Each month, expert guest speakers dive into fascinating astronomy topics, sharing their knowledge and passion for the universe. After the talks, explore the night sky with our telescopes and witness celestial objects up close.
Event is free.

Snowfest | Lake Forest
2026-01-10 | Pittsford Park – Lake Forest, 21701 Pittsford Dr, Lake Forest
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Slide into the new year with Snowfest. Enjoy the snow, games, and a sled ride down Mount Pittsford. The event starts at 10:30am and offers 3 sessions for families. Wristbands are $10 per person. Get your wristbands at the Lake Forest Sports Park & Recreation Center.

North Pole Plunge | Verdugo Aquatic Facility, Burbank
2026-01-10 | Verdugo Aquatics Facility, 3201 W. Verdugo Ave., Burbank, CA, 91505
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Take a winter dip (without the winter chill) at Burbank’s North Pole Plunge! Families can splash in the heated pools, enjoy music, play winter-themed games, and snap a photo with Burr Bear. Hot chocolate is served to keep everyone warm between activities, and the main pool and diving boards will be open throughout the event for all registered participants. Two activity pool sessions are offered, and each attendee must reserve a specific session in advance. Walk-ins may be accepted if space allows.
Participants ages seven and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian both in registration and in the water. Event capacity is limited, and each person may register for one session only.
Admission required.

Adventure Sail | Ocean Institute, Dana Point
2026-01-10 | Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA
January 10, 2026
Families can set sail aboard the Spirit of Dana Point for a hands-on maritime adventure. The experience begins with muster before jumping into activities like raising sail, navigation, helmsmanship, and bow watch. Guests will also witness a ship’s cannon demonstration as the crew showcases naval gunnery.
The Spirit of Dana Point is a traditionally built replica of a 1770s privateer schooner and serves as a teaching vessel for maritime history programs. Tickets are required and can be booked online.

Reptile Super Show | Pomona Fairplex
2026-01-10 - 2026-01-11 | Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W McKinley Ave., Pomona, California, 91768
January 10-11, 2026
See and learn about your favorite reptiles, from slithering snakes to shell-dwelling tortoises and lots more. Kids will get to see animals up close, talk to professional breeders, and you may even bring home a new pet.
Admission $12-18.

The Little Mermaid | Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center
2026-01-10 - 2026-01-11 | Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach
January 10-11, 2026
Dive into a re-imagined world under the sea as Disney’s The Little Mermaid arrives onstage in a visually rich, movement-driven production. This version leans deeper into Hans Christian Andersen’s original tale while keeping the beloved music, sweeping choreography, and magical atmosphere fans love. Families will experience classics like “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World,” enhanced by aerial artistry, immersive staging, and striking design elements.
The show runs approximately 2.5 hours with an intermission. Concessions and merchandise will be available, and all guests ages two and up must have a ticket. Please note that strobe lighting, fog, haze, and loud effects may occur during the performance.
Admission: $42–$68

Making Scents of the Ancient World: Pylos Perfume Workshop at the Getty Center
2026-01-10 | Getty Villa Museum, 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA, 90272
Select Saturdays and Sundays, September 21, 2025 – January 10, 2026
In this free, drop-in workshop, families can create their own perfume inspired by an ancient recipe from Pylos in southern Greece.
Guests will experiment with spices and oils favored by the Mycenaeans, many still in use today, while learning how these materials were used in antiquity.
Free.

Storytime Adventures | Lakeshore Learning (Multiple Locations)
2026-01-10 08:00 - 17:00 | Lakeshore Learning, CA
January 10 & 24, 2026
Lakeshore Learning invites young story lovers (ages 3+) to a free, walk-in crafting and storytelling experience. Kids can make themed take-home crafts inspired by classic children’s tales, create characters for their own stories, and explore hands-on activities in the Play & Discover area. Parents and guardians can check in on arrival for a chance to win a $100 Lakeshore e-gift card. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Whale Watch Festival | Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego
2026-01-10 09:00 - 16:00 | Cabrillo National Monument, 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr., San Diego, CA, 92106
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Celebrate whale migration season with a full day of marine science, hands-on learning, and guided whale watching at Cabrillo National Monument. The festival brings together experts in conservation, education, and ocean stewardship for interactive exhibits, talks, activities, and opportunities to spot gray whales from one of the best viewing points on the West Coast.
Families can enjoy crafts, demonstrations, and meet presenters from organizations dedicated to protecting marine life. Park staff and volunteers will be stationed throughout the grounds helping visitors search the coastline for migrating whales. Guests can also stop by the Cabrillo National Monument Foundation booth—first-time members receive a special thank-you gift.

SNOW Much Fun! | Rivian Laguna
2026-01-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Rivian South Coast Theater, 162 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651
Saturday, January 10, 2026
A hands-on winter science workshop where kids explore heat transfer, melting points, and how salt affects ice—then make their own snowy creations to take home. Guided by Sunnyside early childhood educators, this STEM-based session is designed for curious young learners. All materials provided. Recommended for ages 3+.

Sensory Friendly Saturdays | GRAMMY Museum, LA
2026-01-10 10:00 - 11:00 | GRAMMY Museum, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90015
Second Saturdays of Every Month
A monthly program designed for families seeking a calmer museum experience. Enjoy reduced sound levels, softer lighting, and fewer crowds while exploring the exhibits at your own pace. Sensory-friendly adjustments create a welcoming environment for all guests, especially those who benefit from a more relaxed setting. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Movies in the Park: Disney's Frozen 2 | Plummer Park, West Hollywood
2026-01-10 11:00 - 14:00 | Plummer Park, 7377 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA, 90046
Saturday, January 10, 2026
This cozy winter edition of the community movie series moves indoors for a festive afternoon of crafts, games, and treats before a special screening of Frozen 2. Families can enjoy themed activities, hot chocolate, and cookie decorating, then snuggle up with blankets and chairs for the movie as Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven journey beyond Arendelle on an adventure filled with magic and mystery.
Children under 1 may attend free with a registered adult. All other attendees must register so organizers can plan enough supplies and snacks for everyone.
Admission: $5 per person (ages 1+), registration required.

Kpop + Pop Family Dance Party | House of Blues Anaheim
2026-01-10 16:30 | House of Blues Anaheim, 400 W Disney Way, #337, Anaheim, CA, 92802
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Step into the high-energy world of Kpop at this family-friendly dance party presented by Kids in Motion. Enjoy big-screen music videos featuring your favorite animated Kpop artists and pop hits, plus a face-jewel station, photo ops, and a DJ spinning upbeat tracks all afternoon. Designed for kids but fun for everyone, this immersive event brings the excitement of Kpop to the House of Blues stage.

Silk Road Day | USC Pacific Asia Museum & SoCal Children’s Museum
2026-01-11 08:00 - 17:00 | Southern California Children’s Museum, 459 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA, 91101
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Enjoy a collaborative day of art, culture, and family programming as USC Pacific Asia Museum and the Southern California Children’s Museum team up for Silk Road Day. Both museums offer free admission, free parking, and hands-on art making inspired by USC PAM’s Exploring the Silk Road gallery. Families can move between the two locations to enjoy creative activities throughout the day, plus a live music performance at USC PAM.
Art making runs from 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at both museums. USC PAM remains open until 5 p.m., and SSCM until 4:30 p.m.
Event is free.

Lunar New Year Festival | Torrance Cultural Arts Center
2026-01-11 10:00 | Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, CA, 90503, United States
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse at one of the South Bay’s biggest cultural festivals, hosted by the South Bay Chinese American Association of California USA. Enjoy a full day of live entertainment, lion and dragon dance experiences, cosplay, games, food vendors, and family activities. Visitors can also attend the separate ticketed 22nd Chinese American Lunar New Year Show inside the Armstrong Theatre, featuring professional dancers, musicians, and curated cultural performances. Admission to the outdoor festival is free; indoor show requires tickets.

Antique Aircraft Display Days at Fullerton Airport
2026-01-11 10:00 - 13:00 | Fullerton Airport, 4011 W Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton, CA, 92833
Every Second Sunday of the Month
Owners of classic aircrafts are invited to display their aircrafts and visitors are invited to view the displays every second Sunday of the month. Aircraft will be displayed in the “Transient” parking area inside the airport just north of the terminal building and control tower.
Admission is free.

Oshogatsu Family Festival | Japanese American National Museum, LA
2026-01-11 11:00 - 16:30 | Japanese American National Museum, 100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90012, United States
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Celebrate the New Year Japanese-style at the Oshogatsu Family Festival, a vibrant community tradition welcoming the Year of the Horse. Enjoy a full day of hands-on cultural activities, crafts, live performances, and family fun hosted by the Japanese American National Museum at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center.
Watch a traditional mochitsuki demonstration by Kodama Taiko, see candy artistry in action with Shan the Candyman, snap a souvenir photo with Mighty Little Studio, and dive into Year-of-the-Horse–themed origami and craft stations. A wide lineup of performances and activities throughout the day makes this a festive cultural celebration for all ages.

Orange Unified School District New Student Enrollment Begins!
2026-01-12 | City of Orange
OUSD offers parents a range of educational options for children of all ages including dual-language programs in Spanish/ English and Mandarin/English.
The district has received many awards, including Golden Bell Awards from the California School Board Association, National Forum Schools to Watch, California Civic Learning Awards, 25 Gold Ribbon and 23 Distinguished School Awards from the California Department of Education.
In addition, three of their high schools have been designated as U.S. News & World Report’s “Best” for six consecutive years and 20 elementary and middle schools have been named “Best” for two consecutive years..
For more information, visit orangeusd.org or book your personal tour at orangeusd.org/learnmore. Open enrollment for 2026-2017 begins January 12; new students on January 14!
