Best Things to Do This Weekend in Los Angeles with Kids Sep 18-20, 2026

Updated Weekly!

Every Weekend there are amazing Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids! We’ve curated a list of what we think are the most fun, most interesting family events in Los Angeles this weekend – so you can have the best time together!

We’ll update this page every week so be sure to come back and see what great kids events we have coming up for the weekend in Los Angeles and Southern California. We are your source for the Best Things to do in LA with Kids!

Wondering what to do in LA this weekend? We got you! Whether you have Toddlers or Teens (or any kids in between), this list will give you great ideas for family fun this weekend! We work hard to add things to do we think you’ll enjoy.

We bring you:

• Things to do in LA This Weekend (and Every Weekend)! And you’ll always find tons of options on our list!
• Kid Events
• Things to do all over SoCal – not just in one part of LA
• Things to do that are free, low-cost, and some that are pricey
• Things to do for babies, toddlers, and families with Tweens and Teens
• Things to do for the Whole Family!

The Best Things To Do in Los Angeles with Kids this Weekend

l Clean-Up Day events happening all around L.A., celebrate reading at the Orange County Children’s Book Festival, attend a performance of Dog Man: The Musical at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City, and more!
Latino Heritage Month, also referred to as Hispanic Heritage Month, began September 15th and continues through October 15th. Many activities are happening this weekend. Be sure to check out our post, 59+ Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Los Angeles. New activities and events are being added to our list all the time!

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Friday Movie Night: Up
Brentwood Country Mart
225 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90402

Brentwood Country Mart hosts Movie Nights each Friday in September. On Friday, September 18th enjoy a screening of the Academy Award®-winning, Disney-Pixar film, Up. “Filled with adventure, humor, and heart, this beloved film reminds us that life’s greatest journeys are often the ones we least expect. Pick up dinner, sweet treats, and refreshments from the Mart before the movie begins.” The movie starts at 6:00 pm and is rated PG.

Astronomy Night
Columbia Memorial Space Center
12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA 90242

Columbia Memorial Space Center invites families to Astronomy Night on Saturday, September 19th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. “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.” Plus, during Astronomy Night, the Space Center will also be celebrating National Observe the Moon Night. This is a free, all-ages event. Details are available online.  

Dance MDR | Line Dancing Night
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

The Dance MDR series concludes this week on Friday, September 18th. From 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, participants will get moving with Line Dancing Night! “Pick up new dance moves with beginner lessons from our wonderful instructors Andrea Valero & Felicity Morales, and then dance the night away to music curated by DJ Eddie Baker.” Doors open at 6:30 pm. The fun will also include a photo booth, on-site food truck, and community art activity. Everyone is welcome at this free event. RSVP online.

DroneArt Show: Space Chase
Santa Anita Park, 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007 

On November 6th & 7th, DroneArt Show: Space Chase will transform the sky above Los Angeles into a cosmic stage where 1,200 illuminated drones move in synchronized formations, bringing a cinematic story to life set to a dynamic soundtrack spanning classical, cinematic, and contemporary music.

At the heart of the experience is the story of Joey, a young boy fascinated by space, and Freddie, a curious alien traveling through the universe while evading mysterious pursuers. When their paths unexpectedly cross, their encounter sparks an unforgettable adventure exploring curiosity, courage, and the power of friendship. GET TICKETS NOW with our affiliate link.

Drop-in Workshop for Teens: Animation
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is hosting several family-friendly events this week. On Friday, September 18th from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, teens are invited to participate in a Drop-in Workshop focused on Animation. “Get a quick primer about the history and basics of animation, including pre-cinema flipbooks and cel paintings, and then get busy.” Teens will then create their own digital animation “using an iPad to explore the many techniques Hollywood pros apply to bring objects and characters to life, all under the expert eye of Disney animator Wayne Unten Jr.” Workshops are designed for teens 14 and older. Snacks will be provided. Check the website for details.

MomsLA Book Launch Event – Save the Date!
Village Well Books & Coffee, 9900 Culver Blvd #1b, Culver City, CA 90232

Our book “Los Angeles with Kids” is now in its 2nd Edition and we are celebrating the launch with a FREE event at Village Well Books in Culver City on Saturday, September 26th from 11am – 12:30pm. Come hang out with us at Village Well Books and Coffee, which is one of our favorite independent bookshops in SoCal! Purchase a copy of the book at the store and you’ll be supporting 2 local small businesses! RSVP so we know how many kiddos will be there for the storytime and so we can have enough craft supplies on hand.

Artist-at-Work: Tapa Making and
Stories in Ink: T?tau Bookmark Workshop
Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049

This weekend, Friday, September 18th through Sunday, September 20th (at 11 am, 1 pm, and 2:30 pm), families are invited to visit the Getty Center and “discover the Polynesian art of tapa making with artist-researchers Hinatea Colombani and Moe Meder from Tahiti.” Families will have the chance to “see how tree bark is transformed into cloth and decorated with patterns using natural dyes and traditional tools. Learn about the cultural meanings and stories behind this vibrant, living practice.” 
And, this weekend families can also participate in Stories in Ink: T?tau Bookmark Workshop. During the drop-in workshop (from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm) families can “experiment, create, and connect with the traditional art of t?tau, Polynesian tattoo. Led by members of ?ARIOI, an Indigenous cultural center in Tahiti, this drop-in workshop explores the powerful history, symbols, and patterns of t?tau, and the stories they tell. Then, design your own bookmark inspired by this living practice.” All supplies will be provided. Family programs are free and don’t require a ticket. The Getty Center does require a timed-entry reservation, and there is a fee for parking.

Pasadena Greek Festival
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church
778 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107

The Annual Pasadena Greek Festival is happening this weekend, Friday, September 18th (5 pm to 10 pm), Saturday, September 19th (12 pm to 10 pm), and Sunday, September 20th (12 pm to 10 pm). The Festival is a “vibrant celebration of Greek culture featuring delicious food, traditional music, and dance performances.” The event will also include a Kidzone with special activities for kiddos. Tickets are available online. (Note – parking is off-site and buses to and from the Festival will be running every 10 minutes.) 

Dog Man: The Musical
Kirk Douglas Theatre
9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232

“Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who, with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture.” The performance has a 90-minute runtime, including one intermission. Performances are planned for this weekend Friday, September 18th at 7 pm, Saturday, September 19th at 11 am and 3 pm, and Sunday, September 20th at 1 pm and 5 pm, and continue (on select days) through Sunday, October 18th. (Note – Sensory-Friendly performances are planned for Thursday, October 1st at 11:00 am and Friday, October 2nd at 7:00 pm.) Details and tickets are available online. (Recommended for children 3 and older.)

Halloween at Kidspace
Kidspace Children’s Museum
480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103

The Spooky Season arrives at Kidspace Children’s Museum on Friday, September 18th and continues through Saturday, October 31st. There is lots of fun to be had including the Kidspace Halloween Parade happening each day at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. Plus, “your little pumpkin will love to create their own silly or scary monster in the Adopt-a-Monster Imagination Workshop. Mix up a magical potion in the Witch’s Kitchen with dragon scales and unicorn tears – don’t forget to say the magic word! Go boo-ling for strikes at Pumpkin Bowling – this game is right up your alley.” Kidspace Halloween is free with general admission. Details and tickets are available online. 

Touch-A-Truck
ONEgeneration
17400 Victory Blvd., Encino, CA

ONEgeneration is hosting its Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, September 19th from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. (8 am to 9 am is Quiet Hour.) During this special event, children have the opportunity to “see, touch, honk, explore. Climb in a dump truck, run the sirens on a police car, and lift the hose of a fire truck. This interactive event has all vehicles with a function for essential work that kids see and wonder about.” There will also be free activity stations offering bubble-making, crafts, and more. Tickets may be purchased online or at the door. (“All proceeds from this event support the programs and services of ONEgeneration, including home-delivered meals to older adults, a food pantry for low-income households, and intergenerational programs.”)

DCBA’s 50th Anniversary
East LA Civic Center
4801 E. Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90022

The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special Community Celebration & Resource Fair on Saturday, September 19th. The fun starts at 8:00 am with the East LA Farmers’ Market (available until 1:00 pm). Families will also enjoy games and prizes, live music, the chance to learn about community resources and services, the chance to earn a free lunch (while supplies last), and more.

Little Sparks: Beep Beep, Sounds of the Street
Petersen Automotive Museum
6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

The Petersen Automotive Museum is hosting a Little Sparks workshop on Saturday, September 19th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Little Sparks workshop is a hands-on workshop designed for children ages 3-6, allowing children to explore the world of cars through games, artwork, and observing the Museum’s collection. The theme for Saturday’s workshop is Beep Beep, Sounds of the Street. “Children will learn essential safety skills for walking near roads, crossing streets safely, recognizing traffic signals, and staying alert in everyday situations. Through games and hands-on activities, kids will build confidence and develop habits that help keep them safe.” The workshop is included in general Museum admission. Sign up online.

Coastal Clean-Up Day 2026
Multiple locations

Heal the Bay presents Coastal Cleanup Day 2026 happening on Saturday, September 19th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. “Coastal Cleanup Day is an international day of action to protect our oceans, watersheds, and wildlife from debris and plastic pollution. In collaboration with the California Coastal Commission and the Ocean Conservancy, Heal the Bay has proudly been the Los Angeles County Coordinator of this event for the past 37 years.” This year there will be more than 60 clean-up sites including beaches, trails, parks, and more. Details, including registration information, are available online.

Drop-in Botanical Garden Tour
UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden
707 Tiverton Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90095

Families are invited to attend a Drop-in Botanical Garden Tour on the UCLA campus on Saturday, September 19th from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Garden Educator will lead the tour, and visitors will “hear the stories of a selection of plants in the garden, and their relevance to human society.” This is a free, all-ages event. The Garden is described as a “living museum” and features plants from all around the world. RSVP online. (Note – Tour meets at UCLA La Kretz Garden Pavilion.) 

Family Matinee: Something Wicked This Way Comes in 35mm and 
Drop-in Workshop for Families: Production Design Miniature Sets
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

As part of its Family Matinee series, the Academy Museum is screening Something Wicked This Way Comes in 35mm on Saturday, September 19th at 11:00 am. “Disney funded the project, based on Ray Bradbury’s short story ‘Black Ferris,’ in hopes of breaking free from its stereotype of animated family films; ultimately, there were extensive edits and reshoots to create a more family-friendly film without losing too many of the thrills.” The film has a runtime of 95 minutes and is rated PG.
Also on Saturday, from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, families are invited to participate in a Drop-in Workshop for Families: Production Design Miniature Sets. The Workshop is inspired by the Museum’s exhibition, Barbie to Anna Karenina: The Cinematic Worlds of Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer. “As we near the end of this colorful, inspiring exhibition, our education team welcomes families to create their own miniature sets, much like those on display the galleries.” Details and tickets for all events are available online. 

Storytime & Art Party with Benson Shum and Korey Watari & Mike Wu and
Scuba Cats Ready to Read Chapter Books with Author Janet Tashjian & Illustrator Stephen Holman
Children’s Book World
10580 1/2 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064

Children’s Book World is hosting two special events on Saturday, September 19th. From 10:30 am to 11:30 am families are invited to Storytime & Art Party with Benson Shum and Korey Watari & Mike Wu. Illustrator and author Benson Shum will be launching his newest picture book, Small Pets. Mr. Shum’s friends, Korey Watari & Mike Wu will be celebrating their new picture book, Kimi the BALLerina. “It will be a story and art filled morning of miniature pets, tutus, and free throws!” 
And from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, there will be a “Ready To Read Chapter Books Party with beloved author, Janet Tashjian, and illustrator, Stephen Holman for the launch of their new short chapter book series, Scuba Cats! This fast-paced, highly illustrated adventure will have young readers hooked as they root for their favorite ocean heroes in this laugh-out-loud chapter book full of wonderfully weird sea creatures.” Personalized copies may be ordered in advance and picked up at the store of shipped anywhere in the U.S.

Dino Day
All Lakeshore Locations including
17072 Devonshire St., Northridge, CA 91325

All Lakeshore Locations are hosting Dino Day on Saturday, September 19th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. “Roar into the weekend with a free in-store event packed with prehistoric fun!” Children will work on crafts such as creating their own dinosaur-inspired hat and mixing slimy ooze. Plus, they will have the chance to participate in dinosaur-themed activities, including excavating dinosaur eggs. This is a free, walk-in event. (Note – be sure to check the flyer on the website for a valuable coupon.)

Storytime: Rosie and Her Garden of Pests by Dr. Lauren Stutman
Village Well Books & Coffee
9900 Culver Blvd. #1B, Culver City, CA 90232

Village Well Books & Coffee is hosting children’s storytime on Saturday, September 19th from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Author Dr. Lauren Stutman will “read her book Rosie and her Garden of Pests to kids and parents and then open a discussion about anxiety and tools to deal with it.” The book features Rosie who is “plagued by PESTs — Pesky Empty Scary Thoughts — that plant seeds of fear and worry in her mind.” The book is a “heartfelt and imaginative story that helps children understand anxiety, emotional resilience, and the power of their inner voice.”

Comic Relief LA: Neighborhood Festival
Paramount Pictures Studio – Bronson Gate
5353 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038

Comic Relief LA: Neighborhood Festival is happening at Paramount Pictures Studio on Saturday, September 19th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The free event offers families the chance to “get together and do some good.” There will be live comedy, giant yard games, a picnic-style lunch, the chance to give back by packing care kits, an opportunity to get creative and build with LEGO® (families may also “donate your pre-loved bricks with LEGO® Replay”), and more. RSVP required and is available online. 

Musical Storytime with Pasadena Conservatory of Music
The Gamble House
4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena, CA 91103

“Bring a blanket, snacks and join us under the big oak on the Gamble House lawn with Pasadena Conservatory of Music (PCM)” on Saturday, September 19th from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Saturday’s musical storytime will feature the children’s book, To See an Owl, written by Matthew Cordell. This is a free, drop-in event. No reservations required. (Note – Musical Storytime will be canceled if temperatures reach over 100° F.)

Caroline L. Perry & Sydney Hanson Read From & Sign I Am Not Grumpy! (Critter Complaints) and 
Alina Chau Discusses & Signs Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven
Vroman’s Bookstore
695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101

Vroman’s Bookstore is hosting two family-friendly events on Saturday, September 19th. At 11:00 am, Caroline L. Perry & Sydney Hanson will read from and sign their children’s book, I Am Not Grumpy! (Critter Complaints). “This laugh-out-loud picture book from the creators of I Am Not Happy! gives voice to a black rain frog who swears she’s not grumpy–despite what her expression may suggest. The cheerful little frog teaches her animal neighbors to not judge a critter by its cover in this hilarious and heartwarming story.”
And at 2:00 pm, author Alina Chau will discuss and sign Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven. “Drawing from the classic Chinese adventure Journey to the West, Alina Chau’s bright new adaptation centers on the Monkey King’s wild beginnings and brings one of mythology’s most unforgettable troublemakers to life in a whole new way.”

Westchester Arts and Music (WAM) Block Party
8050 Emerson Ave. (between W. 80th St. & W. 80th Place), Westchester, CA 90045

The annual Westchester Arts and Music (WAM) Block Party is happening on Saturday, September 19th from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This free community event benefits local non-profits and features community booths, kids’ activities, on-site food trucks, live musical and dance performances, a number of vendors, and garden tours. Check the website for details.

Family Workshop: Everything is Sacred ~ Wearable Remnants with Monica Moreno
Craft Contemporary
5814 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

Craft Contemporary invites families to participate in its Family Workshop: Everything is Sacred ~ Wearable Remnants with Monica Moreno happening on Saturday, September 19th from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. “Join jewelry maker and metalsmith Monica Moreno and learn how to work with a variety of found material, such as wood, plastic, and metal to make a talisman or a small sculpture from meaningful objects.” Participants may also bring items from home to incorporate into your creations. Details and tickets are available online. (Recommended for children 10+.)  

Storytime and Art: Sukkot with Noah’s Ark
Central Library
630 W. 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Families are invited to a special Storytime and Art event, Sukkot with Noah’s Ark, at the Central Library on Saturday, September 19th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. “Celebrate Sukkot with a Noah’s Ark Storyteller from the Skirball Cultural Center. Hear a story about this harvest holiday and its themes of gratitude, community, and shelter, then create your own fruit-shaped decoration for your sukkah or home.” Recommended for children 3 and older. 

East West Players Theatre for Youth Tour: When Yuri Met Malcolm
Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch Library
694 S. Oxford Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90005

Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch Library is hosting East West Players Theatre for Youth Tour: When Yuri Met Malcolm on Saturday, September 19th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.“Told through the prism of her unlikely friendship with Malcolm X, this play explores the legacy of Yuri Kochiyama.” The play follows Yuri’s life in the “Japanese American internment camps, to her rapid radicalization during the civil rights movement, to all her activism that followed through the decades.” The play has a runtime of 38 minutes and is recommended for teens ages 12-17. Details are available online. 

Public Star Party
Griffith Observatory
2800 E. Observatory Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Griffith Observatory is hosting a Public Star Party on Saturday, September 19th from 2:00 pm to 9:45 pm. The Public Star Party is a “chance for the whole family to look at the Sun, Moon, visible planets, and other objects, to try out a variety of telescopes, and to talk to knowledgeable amateur astronomers about the sky and their equipment.” This is a free event. 

20th Anniversary Frogtown Artwalk
From Fletcher Dr. in the North to Bauer Pottery in the South

The 2026 Frogtown Artwalk is happening on Saturday, September 19th from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This car-free community event is a “biennial free tour of the studios of the artists and artisans of Elysian Valley (Frogtown).” This all-ages event features pop-up galleries, the chance to tour artists’ studios, live music, art installations, and more. Free pedi-cabs will transport visitors up and down the river path to the various venues.

Burbank Autumn Arts Festival
Johnny Carson Park
400 Bob Hope Dr., Burbank, CA 91505

The Burbank Autumn Arts Festival is happening on Saturday, September 19th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This free, family-friendly event will feature live music, booths showcasing local artists and arts organizations, food trucks, and more. The Festival promises to be a memorable “afternoon of music, art, and connection.” Admission is free, and no tickets are required. However, attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance.

Movies in the Park: The Lion King
Eastview Park
1700 Westmont Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

The City of Rancho Palos Verdes invites families to attend a Movie in the Park on Saturday, September 19th. Saturday’s featured movie is the Disney animated classic, The Lion King. Pre-movie activities start at 6:00 pm, and the movie begins at dusk. Remember to bring your blankets and/or low-slung beach chairs and snacks. Food trucks will not be on-site.

Movies at the Beach: 10 Things I Hate About You
South of the Hermosa Beach Pier

Enjoy an on-the-beach screening of 10 Things I Hate About You on Saturday, September 19th. The fun starts at 6:00 pm (with raffles, face painting, and popcorn), and the movie begins at twilight (about 7:45 pm). Families are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, low-back beach chairs, and snacks and/or dinner. (The movie is rated PG-13.)

Sunset Cinema: Pretty in Pink
Library Park
111 W. Mariposa, El Segundo, CA

The City of El Segundo is hosting a free, outdoor screening of Pretty in Pink, starring Molly Ringwald, on Saturday, September 19th. The pre-movie fun begins at 6:30 pm, and the movie starts at sunset. “Bring a picnic, a blanket or low-back lawn chair, and enjoy a fun evening with friends and a classic 80’s movie.” (The movie is recommended for older teens and their families and is rated PG-13.)

Zootoberfest
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027

The L.A. Zoo invites families to attend Zootoberfest this weekend, on Saturday, September 19th and Sunday, September 20th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm each day. This new event is a “family-friendly Oktoberfest-themed celebration that will transform the L.A. Zoo into a festive fall destination featuring German-inspired food, live Oktoberfest bands, specialty beer and root beer floats, lawn games, a braid bar, a giant ribbon tunnel, themed photo opportunities, keeper talks, seasonal décor, and more!” Details and tickets are available online. 

Power of the Arts Festival
Discovery Cube Los Angeles
11800 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar, CA 91342

Visit Discovery Cube Los Angeles for the Power of the Arts Festival happening on Saturday, September 19th and Sunday, September 20th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm each day. The Power of the Arts Festival is a “two-day celebration of creativity at the intersection of art and science.” The event includes multiple creative disciplines including music, dance, writing, culinary arts, and fashion. Check the website for more information about activities and performers as it becomes available. The Power of the Arts Festival is included in general admission.  

Pasadena ARTwalk
Green St. (between Los Robles & El Molino), Pasadena, CA

The Pasadena ARTwalk is happening this weekend, on Saturday, September 19th and Sunday, September 20th from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm each day. This free, all-ages event is an “outdoor celebration of art, creativity, and community.” The event features more than 180 artisans and creators. Families will find “visual art and photography, original fashion and jewelry design, paper goods, innovative home decor and housewares, food, and much more.” There will also be hands-on art opportunities, food, and live music. Details are available online. 

Family Matinee: The Incredible Journey (IB Tech Print)
New Beverly Cinema
7165 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

As part of its Family Matinee program, New Beverly Cinema is screening The Incredible Journey (IB Tech Print) on Saturday, September 19th and Sunday, September 20th at 2:00 pm. “An unlikely trio – a Labrador retriever, bull terrier, and Siamese cat – must traverse treacherous terrain and overcome dangerous obstacles in their incredible journey home in Walt Disney’s fantastic real-life animal adventure.” The movie has a runtime of 80 minutes and is rated PG. Tickets are available online.

12th Annual Bob Baker Day
LA State Historic Park
1245 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

The 12th Annual Bob Baker Day is taking place on Sunday, September 20th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. “Bob Baker Day celebrates the legacy of our founder, Bob Baker, with puppets, art, and fun for our whole community!” This popular special event will feature performances, on-site food trucks, special guests, a variety of vendors, children’s activities (including face painting and a reading nook, among others), and more. While Bob Baker Day is a free community event, donations are strongly encouraged. RSVP online. 

Orange County Children’s Book Festival
Orange Coast College – Main Quad
2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

The Orange County Children’s Book Festival is happening on Sunday, September 20th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The event features “four stages of Festival fun” including musical performances, conversations, and author readings. The Festival will also feature children’s books-related exhibitors, book signings, interviews, an inflatable slide, on-site food trucks, and more. Check the website for a complete schedule and all the details. Admission and parking are free. 

Family Science Sunday: Marine Mammal Medics
Marine Mammal Care Center
3601 S. Gaffey St. #8, San Pedro, CA 90731

Sunday, September 20th is Family Science Sunday at Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC). This hands-on event gives families the opportunities to “embark on a captivating one-hour journey delving into ocean conservation, marine mammals, and beyond.” The event provides a full visitor experience including access to the interactive exhibit hall and the chance to view current patients at the Center. The topic for Sunday, September 20th is Marine Mammal Medics. “Dive into the world of marine mammal recovery and learn how our expert hospital team cares for sick and injured patients. Families will get an up-close look at the rehabilitation process and discover what it takes to help these animals return to the wild.” Reserve your tickets online. Tickets tend to go quickly. Families may select an 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, or 3:00 pm registration time. (Children must be at least 8 years old to attend. Note – there is a $1 nonrefundable program booking fee for each participant. And as a thank you for attending, on the day of the program, each participant will receive a $1 coupon that can be used in the gift shop or donated to the patients on premises.)

Marina Drum Circle 2026
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

“Discover the joy of interactive group drumming” by participating in Marina Drum Circle 2026 on Sunday, September 20th. Christopher Ramirez of Freedom Drum Circles will lead Marina Drum Circle with drums provided by Remo Drums. “All ages are welcome to enjoy a journey of creating beats and sounds collectively.” Two 60-minute sessions are offered each Sunday — one at 11:30 am and one at 1:30 pm. Drum Circle will be available each Sunday through October 18th, 2026. Sign up online for this free event. 

Andell Family Sundays: Playful Gestures
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

“Families are invited to create side by side with artist Christina Quarles in a playful, hands-on workshop focused on mark-making using a variety of experimental tools and gestures.” This drop-in workshop is taking place on Sunday, September 20th from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm. In addition, families can “join a 30-minute docent-led family tour of outdoor artworks and sculptures.” Tours begin at 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, and 2:00 pm. Details, including ticket information, are available online.

KIDZ BOP Live Birthday Concert
F&M Bank Amphitheater of Long Beach
1051 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802

“KIDZ BOP is celebrating 25 years with the ultimate birthday party concert for the whole family. The KIDZ BOP LIVE Birthday Concert Event brings the party to the stage, with the KIDZ BOP Kids performing today’s biggest kid-friendly pop hits alongside throwback favorites from the past 25 years. With interactive moments, an all-new stage design, and the return of the fan-favorite Daddy Dance Off, it’s a high-energy experience made for kids (and fun for parents too!” The Southern California performance is happening on Sunday, September 20th at 4:00 pm. Doors open at 2:30 pm. Details and tickets are available online. (Note – “There is no onsite parking at the venue. Event parking is located in Downtown Long Beach, with shuttle service to the amphitheater.”)

Sea Otter Awareness Week
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro, CA 90731

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium invites families to experience Sea Otter Awareness Week from Sunday, September 20th through Saturday, September 26th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm each day. (Note – the Aquarium is closed on Monday, September 21st.) Visitors will learn some interesting facts about these amazing marine animals. “Learn how important they are in California’s ecosystem, what they eat and other fascinating facts!” Details and ticket information are available online.

Spider Pavilion
Natural History Museum
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007

The Natural History Museum’s annual Spider Pavilion returns on Sunday,September 20th and will be available until Sunday, December 6th, 2026. “This one-of-a-kind seasonal pavilion gives you a rare glimpse into the secret life of spiders.” As you walk through the open air pavilion, families will see “hundreds of orb weavers and their amazing webs all around.” Visitors can also “enter the spider den to peer into enclosed habitats that house different species from tarantulas to wolf spiders.” Admission to the Spider Pavilion requires a general admission ticket to the Natural History Museum as well as timed entry ticket to the Pavilion. Details and tickets are available online.

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Related: What’s Open for Families

Wendy Kennar is a mother, writer, and former teacher who has lived her entire life in the same Los Angeles zip code. You can read more from Wendy at her website WendyKennar.com where she writes about books, boys, and bodies (living with an invisible disability).

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