Friday Fun | Madrona Marsh Nature Center, Torrance
2026-01-30 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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.

Lunar New Year Celebration | Morning Lavender, Tustin
2026-01-30 15:00 - 17:00 | Morning Lavender, 330 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA, 92780
January 30, 2026
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with an afternoon of cultural activities and family fun. Kids can join a special Lunar New Year–themed Tea for Tots session (registration required), followed by a lively night market featuring local vendors. Don’t miss the Mommy & Me Áo Dài Fashion Show showcasing traditional and modern designs.
Tickets required.

Family Nite | Columbia Memorial Space Center, Downey
2026-01-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Columbia Memorial Space Center, 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA, 90242
Friday, January 30, 2026
Explore the museum after hours at this monthly space-themed gathering for families. Wander through the exhibits, meet expert speakers sharing kid-friendly talks on astronomy and space science, and enjoy hands-on discovery at your own pace. A casual, curiosity-driven night for all ages.
Event is free.

Family Hike at Black Star Canyon | Irvine Ranch Open Space
2026-01-31 | 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.

Tanzanite African Acrobats | Irvine Barclay Theatre
2026-01-31 | Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr., Irvine, CA, 92612
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Kids will be amazed as the Tanzanite African Acrobats take the stage with a high-energy show blending East African culture, rhythmic drumming, and mind-bending athleticism. This internationally celebrated troupe performs gravity-defying stunts, human pyramids, and choreography packed with music, storytelling, and vibrant costumes. A family-friendly performance that brings tradition and excitement together in one unforgettable experience.

Youth Woodworking Class | The Gamble House, Pasadena
2026-01-31 | The Gamble House, 4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena, CA, 91103
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Kids ages 5–15 can dive into hands-on creativity at this free woodworking workshop hosted by Side Street Projects. Using only hand tools, students will practice sanding, sawing, drilling, shaping, hammering, and more in a safe, guided setting. The class is limited to 15 students, so arriving early is recommended. Closed-toed shoes, snacks, and water are encouraged.
Class is free.

Lunar New Year Festival in Monterey Park
2026-01-31 - 2026-02-01 | Downtown Monterey Park (on Garvey Ave.), Garvey Ave. (between Garfiled & Alhambra Ave.), Monterey Park, CA, 91754
January 31 – February 1, 2026
Enjoy a day celebrating the Lunar New Year with performers, delicious food, live entertainment, family activities, and more!
Admission is free.

The Great Race: A Chinese New Year Adventure | Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa
2026-01-31 - 2026-02-01 | Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Join characters, Po Po and Kung Kung, as they celebrate Chinese New Year by making dumplings and sharing the story of The Great Race with their grandkids, Freddie and Ivy. The show weaves a family celebration with a re-telling of one of the most beloved tales in Chinese folklore – the origin story of the Chinese Zodiac.
When the Jade Emperor needs a way to tell time, he decrees that there will be a Great Race. The first twelve animals to cross the mighty river will have a year named after them. This 12-year cycle will mark the passage of time. Which animals win the race? What are the traits that help them cross the river? Why do the Rat and Cat become enemies?
Learn how each animal earned its place in the Chinese Zodiac through this new performance from Honolulu Theatre for Youth, featuring a cast off our, traditional Chinese music, Jingju, and martial arts, and a whole lot of fun!

Saturday, January 31 – 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
Sunday, February 1 – 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM
Purchase Tickets Here.

Chino Lunar New Year Festival
2026-01-31 - 2026-02-01 | Chino City Hall, 13220 Central Ave., Chino, CA, 91710
January 31 – February 1, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the 1st Annual Chino Lunar Festival, a vibrant new community tradition filled with cultural showcases, gourmet street food, and family-friendly fun. Enjoy lion and dragon dances, acrobatic performances, live music including K-Pop and folk fusion, and an artisan marketplace highlighting handcrafted goods. Kids can explore a dedicated fun zone with games and workshops, while adults can try calligraphy, tea ceremony demos, and Lunar New Year craft sessions.
Free admission for all ages.

Knott’s PEANUTS™ Celebration | Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park
2026-01-31 - 2026-02-22 | Knott’s Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, 90620
Weekends, January 31 – February 22, 2026
Knott’s kicks off its Seasons of Fun with a park-wide PEANUTS takeover, inviting families to step inside the world of Charles M. Schulz. Enjoy character meet-and-greets, lively entertainment, themed treats, and interactive experiences throughout the park—including the all-new Knott’s Express musical parade featuring Charlie Brown, Linus, Sally, singers, and dancers. Additional favorites like Snoopy’s Legendary Rooftop Concert and PEANUTS Sketch School keep the celebration playful for all ages.

Vernal Pool Walk | Fairview Park, Costa Mesa
2026-01-31 09:00 | Fairview Park – Costa Mesa, 2501 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Explore one of Orange County’s rarest natural habitats on a guided walk through Fairview Park’s vernal pools. Led by ecologist Barry Nerhus, this tour highlights seasonal wetlands that appear after winter rains and support endangered and uniquely adapted species. Families will learn how these fragile ecosystems form, why they’re so rare, and what lives within them. Comfortable shoes and water recommended.
Event is free

DodgerFest | Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
2026-01-31 09:00 - 14:00 | Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Avenue, Los Angeles
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Celebrate the upcoming baseball season with a full day of games, live music, ballpark bites, VIP experiences, and exclusive merchandise. Fans can enjoy autograph sessions, photo ops, and meet-and-greets with Dodgers players throughout the stadium. The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation will host its annual Yard Sale and Mystery Bag fundraiser, offering unique memorabilia to support local community programs. The event wraps with a 90-minute stage show featuring player conversations about the season ahead.
Admission required.

Miyawaki Forest | Gloria Molina Grand Park, Los Angeles
2026-01-31 10:00 - 14:00 | Gloria Molina Grand Park, 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90012
January 31, 2026
Be part of the groundbreaking of L.A.’s first urban Miyawaki Forest, a community project focused on restoring biodiversity and accelerating native forest growth. Families can experience a ceremonial land acknowledgment, Aztec dance blessing, and Legacy Workshops. This outdoor event highlights climate awareness, ecological learning, and the power of planting for the future.
Event is free.

Children’s Day Celebration | Ability First Educational Center, Long Beach
2026-01-31 11:00 - 15:00 | AbilityFirst Educational Center, 3770 E Willow St., Long Beach, CA, 90815
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Enjoy a fun-filled day hosted with Agape Children’s Museum featuring toys, crafts, giveaways, and hands-on activities for all ages. Families can explore creative stations, meet community partners, and take home free toy prizes while supplies last. A lively, welcoming event perfect for kids of every age.
Event is free.

Koreatown Lunar Night Market | Los Angeles
2026-01-31 15:00 - 18:00 | Koreatown Plaza, 928 S Western Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90006
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with cultural performances, AAPI-owned vendors, and delicious eats at the Koreatown Lunar Night Market. Families can enjoy a Chinese Lion Dance, Korean drumming, and shopping from small businesses throughout Koreatown Plaza. The first 350 attendees will receive a $15 food voucher redeemable at the Koreatown Plaza Food Court (distributed on a first-come basis; RSVP does not guarantee a voucher).
Event is free.

Lunar New Year Celebration at The Shops in Santa Anita
2026-02-01 - 2026-02-28 | The Shops at Santa Anita, 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA, 91007
February 1-28, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse all month long with a stunning décor installation honoring strength, vitality, and new beginnings. Center Court transforms into an immersive Lunar New Year display featuring a golden horse surrounded by cherry blossoms, gold coins, lush gardens, a glowing bridge, and custom-branded gold Foo Dogs. The festive atmosphere continues on weekends with live calligraphy, lion dances, music, and special retailer pop-ups for families to enjoy.
Event is free.

Family Science Sunday | Marine Mammal Care Center, San Pedro
2026-02-01 | 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

San Diego Museum Month — Half-Off Admission to 70+ Museums
2026-02-01 - 2026-02-28 | San Diego, San Diego, CA
February 1-28, 2026
Enjoy half-off admission to more than 70 museums, gardens, aquariums, historic sites, nature and wildlife centers, state parks and more! It’s the region’s biggest month-long celebration of arts, culture, history, science, nature, and so much more.
How to Participate: Pick up a printed Museum Month pass for free at local libraries throughout San Diego County. Each Museum Month pass can be used for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. (Additional fees may apply for special exhibitions and events at some museums.) Guests can use their Museum Month pass multiple times to visit as many museums as they would like from Feb. 1-28, 2026. Museum Month is not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
Digital Passes: Download the digital Museum Month Pass on the San Diego Museum Council website.
Note: Certain museums may only accept printed Museum Month passes. Others require advanced online reservations. Be sure to check the website for any restrictions before visiting.

2026 Participating Museums:
Visit sandiegomuseumcouncil.com for more details and specific restrictions for each museum.

Balboa Museums

Balboa Park Botanical Building
Centro Cultural de la Raza
Comic-Con Museum
Fleet Science Center
ICA Central
Japanese Friendship Garden
Marston House Museum & Gardens
Mingei International Museum
MOPA@SDMA
Museum of Us
San Diego Air & Space Museum
San Diego Automotive Museum
San Diego History Center
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
San Diego Museum of Art
San Diego Natural History Museum
WorldBeat Cultural Center

Downtown San Diego Museums

Brain Observatory
Chicano Park Museum & Cultural Center
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
Maritime Museum of San Diego
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego
New Children’s Museum
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
USS Midway Museum

Arts District Liberty Station Museums

MCRD Command Museum
Nautical History Gallery & Museum
New Americans Museum
San Diego Watercolor Society
Visions Museum of Textile Art

San Diego’s North County Museums

California Center for the Arts Museum, Escondido
California Surf Museum
Children’s Discovery Museum
Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum
Encinitas Historical Society 1883 Schoolhouse
GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Museum
Green Dragon Tavern & Museum (Museum Only)
ICA North
LEGOLAND® California & SEA LIFE® Aquarium
Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum
Mission San Luis Rey
Museum of Making Music
San Diego Archaeological Center
San Diego Botanic Garden
Warner-Carrillo Ranch House (SOHO)

East County Museums

Barona Cultural Center and Museum
Heritage of the Americas Museum
Ilan-Lael Foundation
La Mesa Depot Museum
Lemon Grove Parsonage Museum
Olaf Wieghorst Museum & Western Heritage Center
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum
The Water Conservation Garden

La Jolla Museums

Birch Aquarium at Scripps
La Jolla Historical Society
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD)
RUTH: Remember Us The Holocaust

South Bay Museums
Bonita Museum & Cultural Center
Living Coast Discovery Center
Tijuana Estuary
See the full list of museum on sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.

Lunar New Year Celebration | Casa Romantica, San Clemente
2026-02-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA, 92672
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Enjoy free admission to Casa Romantica with lion dance, festive crafts, and activities celebrating the traditions of Lunar New Year. Lucky red envelopes will be given out to the first 100 attendees.

Whale Fiesta | Cabrillo Aquarium, San Pedro
2026-02-01 10:00 - 15:00 | Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro, CA, 90731
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Join Cabrillo Marine Aquarium to celebrate the migration of the Pacific gray whale and the beginning of the whale watch season. It’s a family day filled with activities and exhibits for all including games, arts and crafts, puppet shows, expert guest lecturers, and festive music.
Don’t miss seeing the life-sized inflatables whales and the famous Duct Tape Whale Contest.

Family Flicks Series | Hammer Museum, LA
2026-02-01 11:00 | Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90024
Enjoy family-friendly matinee movie screenings.
Sunday, February 1, 2026
The Secret Life of Pets
11:00 am
Sunday, March 22, 2026
Inside Out
11:00 am
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Singin’ in the Rain
11:00 am
Admission is free. Seating is first come, first serve.

Lunar New Year Festival | Bowers Museum, Santa Ana
2026-02-01 11:00 - 15:00 | Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA, 92706, United States
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with a festive afternoon featuring cultural dances and music from China and Korea, including an exciting Dragon Dance by JC Culture Foundation. Families can decorate paper lanterns, enjoy face painting, and pick up a sweet treat while celebrating the spirit of Lunar New Year.
Event is free.

Family Style Dance Class | Glendale Central Library
2026-02-01 15:00 | Glendale Central Library, 222 East Harvard St., Glendale, CA, 90806
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Move, groove, and learn a short dance sequence together in this upbeat family dance class led by Petite Feet instructor Liz Vacco. The session includes warm-ups, dance games, and group choreography designed for kids ages 4–12, with babies and younger walkers welcome to join in the fun. Each family must have at least one participating adult, and all attendees must register.
Free parking with validation; accommodations available upon request.

Valentine’s Kids Club | 2nd & PCH, Long Beach
2026-02-03 10:00 - 12:00 | 2nd & PCH, 6400 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, 90803
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Celebrate Valentine’s season with a morning of music, magic, crafts, and character fun. Kids can jump into a high-energy dance party with Clubhouse Characters, enjoy a meet-and-greet with photo ops, and get creative at a Valentine-themed arts and crafts station. Families are encouraged to dress little ones in festive pink-and-red outfits for extra-sweet photos.

STOMP: The International Sensation | Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
2026-02-04 - 2026-02-05 | Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Dr., Cerritos, CA, 90703
February 4-5, 2026
Feel the rhythm of the international sensation STOMP: an explosive mix of percussion, movement, and comedy! This award-winning show transforms everyday objects into a high-energy spectacle that’s thrilled millions of fans in over 350 cities in 36 countries worldwide. From garbage cans to matchboxes, STOMP creates rhythm in unexpected ways.
Tickets required.

Centennial Farm Discovery Days
2026-02-04 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.

Valentine Heart Frames – A Family Workshop | AMOCA, Pomona
2026-02-04 08:00 - 17:00 | American Musem of Ceramic Art, 399 N Garey Ave., Pomona, CA, 91767
Saturday, February 7, 2026
AMOCA hosts a Valentine workshop to craft heart-shaped frames perfect for showcasing favorite polaroid photos.
Create a handmade frame to hold a photo of a loved one, a pet, or yourself. Print your own polaroid photo to take home in your frame while supplies last, or bring a small photo from home (3.5×2.5 inches or smaller). All materials and tools are provided. AMOCA’s family workshops welcome all ages, and both adults and children receive supplies to participate in the art project.
Workshop details:

Craft heart-shaped frames
Print polaroid photos on-site (while supplies last)
All materials and tools provided
Registration includes museum admission

Wear clothes that can get messy or bring your own apron. Children and youth under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Preregistration is required.
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How much does the Valentine Heart Frames workshop cost?
Tickets are $15 per person, or $10 for youth under 12, Pomona residents, or AMOCA Museum Members. Registration includes instruction, materials, and museum admission.
Do you need to register for the Valentine Heart Frames workshop?
Yes, preregistration is required. Register through AMOCA’s website.
Is the Valentine Heart Frames workshop good for all ages?
Yes, AMOCA’s family workshops welcome all ages. Both adults and children receive supplies to participate. Children and youth under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
What time does the Valentine Heart Frames workshop start?
The workshop runs from 11:30 AM-1:30 PM on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Can families bring their own photos?
Yes, you can bring a small photo from home (3.5×2.5 inches or smaller) or print a polaroid photo on-site while supplies last.
What should families bring to the workshop?
All materials and tools are provided. Wear clothes that can get messy or bring your own apron. Optionally, bring a small photo (3.5×2.5 inches or smaller) if you prefer not to print on-site.
Does registration include museum admission?
Yes, registration includes admission to the museum on Saturday, February 7. AMOCA is open 11 AM-4 PM on Saturdays, so you can arrive early or stay late to explore.
Before You Go: Visit AMOCA’s website to register for the workshop. Preregistration is required. This event is organized by the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA). 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.

Free Day at The Huntington Library
2026-02-05 | The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, 91108
The first Thursday of every month is a Free Day. Admission is free of charge with advance reservation.
Free Day tickets are available the last Thursday of every month for admission the following week.
Visit the website to reserve your ticket!

First & Third Saturday: Caboose Classi | Southern California Railway Museum, Perris
2026-02-05 | Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 South A St., Perris, CA, 92570
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Southern California Railway Museum hosts its First & Third Saturdays event featuring the Caboose Classic.
Ride in historic cabooses with premium seating available to all guests at no extra cost. Explore open exhibits showcasing historic rail collections and displays. Play lawn games, participate in a scavenger hunt, and create a hands-on craft at the Maker Station.
Event highlights:

Caboose Classic rides with premium seating
Historic rail collections and displays
Lawn games and scavenger hunt
Maker Station with make-and-take crafts

First Saturday programming features free admission and access to open exhibits and activities. Valid ride tickets are required for all locomotive and trolley operations.
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Do you need tickets for the Caboose Classic rides?
Yes, valid weekend ride tickets are required for caboose rides and all locomotive and trolley operations.
Is admission free for First & Third Saturdays at the Southern California Railway Museum?
First Saturday programming features free admission and access to open exhibits and activities. Ride tickets are required for train operations.
What activities are available at First & Third Saturdays?
Caboose Classic rides, historic rail exhibits, lawn games, scavenger hunt, and hands-on crafts at the Maker Station.
What makes the Caboose Classic special?
All seats are premium caboose seats at no extra cost—normally a premium upgrade.
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Before You Go: Visit Southern California Railway Museum‘s website for updates and details. This event is organized by Southern California Railway Museum. 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.

First Fridays: 20th Anniversary Season | Natural History Museum, LA
2026-02-06 | Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90007
February–May 2026
Explore NHM after dark as science, music, cocktails, and culture come together for L.A.’s original after-hours museum experience. First Fridays returns for its 20th anniversary with live music in the North American Mammal Hall, a DJ lounge in the African Mammal Hall, expert-led conversations with the Berggruen Institute, science pop-ups, bars, food trucks, and exclusive early access for Members. Wander the museum at your own pace in a lively, social nighttime setting.
Upcoming Dates

February 6 – Life at the Human Scale
March 6 – Life at the City Scale
April 3 – Life at the Planetary Scale
May 1 – Life at the Cosmic Scale
