things to do

Events for Kids in Southern California

Sun

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March 1

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March 31

Pretend City Children’s Museum,

Irvine

March: Interactive spaces that support early development, social skills, and problem-solving where little ones can explore a miniature city designed for them.

Tue

10

March 10

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March 22

The Pantages Theatre,

Los Angeles

March 10–22: Experience the hilarious Broadway musical based on Tim Burton’s film, packed with outrageous humor and spectacular stage effects. Admission required.

Thu

12

March 12

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March 14

Rose Center Theater,

Westminster

March 12–14: Enjoy a student-led production of the beloved Broadway musical filled with classic songs, choreography, and heartwarming family themes. Admission required.

Thu

12

March 12

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March 15

Japanese Friendship Garden,

San Diego

March 12-15: Stroll beneath blooming cherry blossoms, enjoy cultural performances, family activities, food vendors, and a festive beer and sake garden in Balboa Park. Admission required.

Thu

12

March 12

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March 12

Birch Aquarium,

La Jolla

March 12: Explore the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Aquarium Tour during a special after-hours Game Night with character meet-and-greets, a stamp rally, gaming lounge, and themed photo spots. Tickets required.

Fri

13

March 13

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March 15

The Shops at Santa Anita,

Arcadia

March 13–15: Explore themed zones, photo backdrops, game demos, and Dragon Ball collectibles during a limited-time pop-up at The Shops at Santa Anita. FREE!

Fri

13

March 13

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March 15

Bob Baker Marrionette Theater,

Los Angeles

January 24–May 3: Celebrate Los Angeles through handcrafted marionettes in this whimsical city-inspired puppet show. Admission required.

Fri

13

March 13

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March 15

Cypress College,

Cypress

March 13–22: Watch SpongeBob and friends try to save Bikini Bottom in this colorful stage adaptation of the Nickelodeon series. Tickets are $25 general admission or $15 for students and seniors.

Fri

13

March 13

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May 17

Kidspace Children’s Museum,

Pasadena

March 13–May 17: Dress up with monarch wings, explore bug safaris, and adopt live caterpillars during this spring pollinator celebration. Included with admission.

Fri

13

March 13

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March 13

Descanso Gardens,

La Cañada Flintridge

March - April: Explore, play and create under the oaks on the Main Lawn. Families with young children (ages 2-5) will enjoy doing arts and crafts and nature exploration together each month.

Fri

13

March 13

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March 13

Upper Newport Bay,

Newport Beach

Every Friday: 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. FREE!

Fri

13

March 13

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March 13

Madrona Marsh Preserve,

Torrance

Every Friday: Explore nature with story time, crafts, science, and guided activities designed for preschoolers. FREE!

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Fri

13

March 13

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March 13

Lil’ Chef School,

Irvine

MARCH 6, 7, 13 & 27: Kids will enjoy learning how to make Japanese Cuisine, Vegan Baking, Lucky Charm Crispy Treats and Irish Food. Ages 3+. Sign up early!

Fri

13

March 13

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March 13

Columbia Memorial Space Center,

Downey

March 13: Attend Astronomy Night from 7:00–9:00 pm with a guest speaker, telescope viewing, and space science talks at Columbia Memorial Space Center. FREE!

Sat

14

March 14

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March 15

Southern California Railway Museum,

Perris

Select Weekends: Take a ride on the Museum Railway on a real operating trolley or behind a locomotive every weekend. Parking, entry to grounds, and entry to open exhibits are free (except during special ticketed events).

Sat

14

March 14

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March 15

OC Fair & Event Center,

Costa Mesa

March 14–15: Explore a massive overlanding expo with 300+ gear exhibitors, adventure travel classes, vehicle demos, and a kids RC driving course.

Sat

14

March 14

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March 14

Autry Museum of the American West,

Los Angeles

March 14: Celebrate Pi Day with a massive pie festival featuring 25+ vendors, baking demos, a pie contest, celebrity judges, and free museum access. FREE!

Sat

14

March 14

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March 14

Great Park Live,

Irvine

March 14: A one-day Orange County music festival featuring Story of the Year, LIT, Fenix TX, MEST, Tunnel Vision, and more, plus an optional craft beer festival experience for guests 21+.

Sat

14

March 14

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March 14

Petersen Automotive Museum,

Los Angeles

March 14: Celebrate the opening of a Fast & Furious exhibition with a multi-level car show, Tokyo Drift–inspired vehicles, special guests, and legendary movie cars on display.

Sat

14

March 14

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March 14

Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park,

Silverado

March–April (Saturdays): Take a guided 3–4 mile family hike along a flat canyon trail with wildlife spotting and interpretive stops. Registration may be required.

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