Updated for 2025

Summer is the best time to be in LA. There are so many things to do in Los Angeles with kids including festivals, shows, concerts and free events that you could do something different every day. We want to help you have the best summer ever so we’ve compiled a list with 100 Days of Things to do with Kids in LA this Summer starting on Friday, May 23rd, 2025.

From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, you’ll find something for the whole family on this amazing list updated every year! Plus be sure to check out our Guide to all the Summer Fun in Los Angeles. It’s also updated every year!

Jump to the Month you’re looking for!

Find Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids in June >>> HERE

Find Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids in July >>> HERE

Find Things To Do with Kids in August >>> HERE

May

Friday, May 23

LA Fleet Week 
LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles

(For driving directions use: 100 Swinford St., San Pedro, CA 90731)

LA Fleet Week is “an annual, multi-day celebration of our nation’s Sea Services.” The event is being held over the extended Memorial Day Weekend from Wednesday, May 21st through Monday, May 26th. The free event includes tours of active duty ships, live entertainment, aircraft flyovers, military displays and equipment demonstrations, and much more. Check the website for details and information regarding parking and shuttle options.

Saturday, May 24

Fiesta Hermosa
Downtown Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach’s annual Fiesta Hermosa is happening Memorial Day weekend – Saturday, May 24th through Monday, May 26th. For more than 50 years, “Fiesta has been filling Hermosa’s streets with art, music, and fun,” and is known as “Southern California’s largest beachside arts and crafts festival.” The fun includes live musical performances across multiple stages, carnival rides and games, food, Makers Mercado featuring more than 200 artisan vendors, and much more. The event spans half-a-mile, with two shuttle bus stops. Check the website for all the details. 

Sunday, May 25

50th Annual Topanga Days
1440 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA

The 50th Annual Topanga Days event  is happening Memorial Day weekend – Saturday, May 24th through Monday, May 26th from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm each day. A Parade is scheduled for Monday, May 26th starting at 8:30 am. The fun includes live entertainment, a variety of vendors, food, games, and more. This special event is a fundraiser for the Topanga Community Center. Details, including information on parking, shuttles, and tickets, are available online.   

Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day

33rd Annual Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade
Sherman Way Blvd. (from Owensmouth to Cozycroft), Canoga Park, CA 

The 33rd Annual Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade is happening on Monday, May 26th. The opening ceremony is at 10:00 am, and the parade starts at 11:00 am. Enjoy floats, classic cars, bands and choral groups, and more during this special tribute to our country’s fallen service members.

Tuesday, May 27

Toddler Tuesdays – Musical Mornings
The Autry Museum in Griffith Park
4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027

On the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, The Autry Museum is hosting a new children’s music workshop event. Two sessions are offered — the 10:15 am session is intended for children 2 1/2 and younger and includes “exposure to a variety of music by singing and moving, listening to action songs that exemplify beat and pitch.” The second session takes place at 11:00 am and is intended for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 5 and includes learning the “fundamentals of music using Boomwhackers percussion tubes to play songs and focus on basic music theory and terminology.” (And if you can’t make it on the 27th, Toddler Tuesdays is also taking place on June 10 and June 24.) The event is free, with at least one adult paid museum admission or museum membership. Children under 5 are free. Advance registration is required as space is limited.  

Wednesday, May 28

Hawaiian Lei
Carson Library
151 E. Carson St., Carson, CA 90745

To celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Carson Library is holding a special activity on Wednesday, May 28 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Children (ages 5-12) will learn about the history and customs associated with Hawaiian Leis. Children will then create their own leis to take home. All materials will be provided. 

Thursday, May 29

Beach Eats – Food Trucks
Parking Lot 11
14101 Panay Way, Marina del Rey, CA 

Each Thursday (through October 30th) from 5 pm to 9 pm, families are invited to enjoy Beach Eats, Food Truck Thursdays in Marina del Rey. This weekly food truck event is a great way to get a night off from cooking dinner. Bring a blanket and/or some beach chairs and you can have a picnic dinner on the beach! Food trucks and menus change weekly. Details and tickets are available online. (Note – food may be ordered online, up to 5 days in advance.)  

Friday, May 30

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

Columbia Memorial Space Center invites families to Family Night on Friday, May 30th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This monthly event features “features fascinating talks on space-related topics with expert speakers stationed in different rooms throughout the museum.” 

Saturday, May 31

Marina Culture Jam
Burton Chace Park
13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Marina del Rey with a special Marina Culture Jam event happening on Saturday, May 31 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The free event will feature live musical and dance performances, art installations, food vendors, and more. Details are available online.

Click here for all the Summer Concerts!

Things To Do in Los Angeles Every Day in June, 2025

Sunday, June 1

Downtown Burbank Arts Festival
San Fernando Blvd. (From Magnolia to Angeleno), Burbank, CA

The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival is happening on Saturday, May 31st and Sunday, June 1st from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The free event features more than 170 booths showcasing a variety of artisans and offering “indie goods including visual art and photography, original fashion and jewelry design, paper goods, innovative home decor and housewares, food, and much more.” Special activities for families are planned, too, including face painting, caricatures, watercolor painting opportunities, and arts and crafts. Plus, be sure to keep an eye out for a Unicycling Unicorn, which will be out and about at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm each day. 

Monday, June 2

Mining & Crafting LEGO Workshop
Mar Vista Branch Library
12006 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066

Kiddos (ages 5-11) are invited to the Mar Vista Branch Library on Monday, June 2nd from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm for a Mining & Crafting LEGO Workshop. “Bring your Minecraft® adventures to life off the screen and into your hands! In this one-hour Bricks 4 Kidz workshop, kids will use battery packs, motors, gears, and Technic LEGO® bricks to engineer exciting creations inspired by the game they love. Whether you’re powering up a pig or dodging creepers, come build, explore, and play the Bricks 4 Kidz way!” Space is limited; reserve your sport by emailing [email protected] or calling (310) 390-3454. 

Tuesday, June 3

Tuesday Night Dance: Soulful Grooves
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Argyros Plaza
600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626

The Segerstrom invites families to participate in Tuesday Night Dance on Tuesday, June 3rd from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (and each Tuesday in June). Participants will learn a new style of dance taught by a local instructor. Tuesday Night Dance is all about fun and is an all-ages, all-abilities event. No dance experience required. During the month of June, the focus is on Black dance traditions as part of Black Music Month. Additionally, each class features a Studio D Instructor “demonstrating adapted movements for those who participate seated.” Admission is free with Plaza Pass. Sign up for free and download the digital pass before you arrive. (“Plaza Pass grants access to free programming all year round, including live concerts, yoga classes, cultural experiences and more.”) Details are available online. 

Wednesday, June 4

Tube-A-Palooza: Tunneling Into Play
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 

Pretend City Children’s Museum invites families to experience Tube-A-Palooza, a special program that starts on Friday, May 23rd and continues through Monday, September 1st. “Take your family on an exciting adventure through a world of tubes—big, small, twisty, and tall! This hands-on, STEAM-powered experience is packed for kids to build, explore, and discover through play.” Details and ticket information are available online.

Thursday, June 5

Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA)
644 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

The 6,000 square-foot Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA) “explores the Italian American experience in the context of the nation’s multicultural mosaic.” The Museum is housed in the Italian Hall, which was built in 1908 as a community center. “The IAMLA’s collection contains approximately 6,000 artifacts, photographs and archival documents. The ever growing collection spans from the 18th century to recent history. Italian Americans and Italians in the West are the Museum’s collections priorities and the Museum serves as the only repository of its kind in the Western U.S.” The Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. While admission is free, donations are encouraged. 

Friday, June 6

Summer Movies in the Park: The Garfield Movie
El Salvador Park
1825 W. Civic Center Dr., Santa Ana, CA

The City of Santa Ana invites families to enjoy a Summer Movie in the Park each Friday evening this summer (through July 25th). The fun begins at 6:30 pm with arts and crafts for kids, giveaways, community resources, on-site food vendors, and complimentary popcorn (while supplies last). The movie begins at dusk. On June 6th, spread out your picnic blanket, get comfy in your beach chairs, and settle in for a screening of The Garfield Movie (rated PG). (Summer Movies in the Park is a weekly program, for the next six weeks. Each week features a different movie in a different park.)

Saturday, June 7

Gilmore Heritage Auto Show
The Original Farmers Market
6333 W. Third St., Los Angeles, CA 90036

The 29th Annual Gilmore Heritage Auto Show is happening on Saturday, June 7th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. This year’s theme is “LA Strong: A Tribute to American Muscle Cars.” More than 80 “breathtaking American classics will be on display,” including customs, hot rods, trucks and more. This is a free event.   

Sunday, June 8

22nd Annual Pacific Islander Festival
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802

The Aquarium of the Pacific invites families to its 22nd Annual Pacific Islander Festival happening on Saturday, June 7th and Sunday, June 8th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day. The annual event celebrates Pacific Islander cultures, including Hawaiian, Tongan, Tahitian, Samoan, Chamorro, Marshallese, M?ori, and Fijian. Families will enjoy live musical and dance performances, craft demonstrations, cultural displays, and more. The Festival is included in general Aquarium admission. Tickets are available online. 

Monday, June 9

Roundhouse Aquarium
At the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier

The Roundhouse Aquarium is such a fun place to explore. “More than 100 marine animals from Southern California’s waters live at the aquarium, many are native to its local waters in the Santa Monica Bay.” You’ll find sharks, moray eels, lobsters, moon jellies, octopus, and more. Touch tanks allow you to interact with sea stars, sea cucumbers, sea snails, and sea urchins. During the summer, the Roundhouse Aquarium is open Monday through Friday from 2 pm to 7 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. The aquarium offers free admission, though donations of $5 each, or $10 per family, are suggested and much appreciated. (Note – These are the Aquarium’s Summer Hours. Hours differ during fall and winter, October through March.)

Tuesday, June 10

How to Bird StoryWalk
Exterior Fence of Elysian Heights Elementary School
1562 Baxter St., Los Angeles, CA 90026

The Los Angeles Public Library System encourages families to become inspired to bird watch with a visit to the How to Bird StoryWalk experience. As you read through the book, families will enjoy a leisurely outdoor stroll and learn about “accessible tips for all who want to bird.” The StoryWalk can be viewed along Echo Park Avenue between Ewing and Fargo Streets. Check the website for details.

Wednesday, June 11

California State Parks Week
Multiple locations

California State Parks Week is happening Wednesday, June 11th through Sunday, June 15th. This year’s tagline is “This is where you live.” A variety of different activities are planned to coincide with the different Event Themes taking place this week. California State Parks Week Themes include Explore New Experiences, Nourish Your Health and Well-Being, Support Climate Resilience, Celebrate Community and Culture, and Care For Our Shared Lands. Check the website for details. 

Thursday, June 12

Bamboozled: An Unexpected Bamboo Adventure
South Coast Botanic Garden
26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

You’ll want to visit the South Coast Botanic Garden this summer to experience Bamboozled: An Unexpected Bamboo Adventure. This special exhibit features “eight monumental bird sculptures made from bamboo, each with a unique personality and story to tell. But Bamboozled is far more than an art exhibit, it transforms the Garden’s 87 acres into a whimsical, interactive journey. Guests will follow the clatter of bamboo wind chimes as they search for each sculpture, which are tucked throughout the Garden’s stunning landscape.” Guests can interact with many of the sculptures, including sitting inside the Great Horned Owl and running through the Scrub Jay. Families may opt to upgrade their Bamboozled experience with the “Secret Adventure Ticket” which includes an Adventure Kit including a special map and “behind-the-scenes insights, clues for further discovery, and a special tool to enhance the interactive experience.” Bamboozled is included in general admission; Secret Adventure Tickets do require an additional fee. And don’t forget, SOAR, featuring hundreds of tropical butterflies, is also at he South Coast Botanic Garden this summer. Details and tickets are available online.

Friday, June 13

2nd Annual Fishtival/KCRW Summer Night
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro, CA 90731

The 2nd Annual Fishtival/KCRW Summer Night takes place at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on Friday, June 13th at 7:00 pm. This free event will feature KCRW DJs, on-site food trucks, and the opportunity to “explore the wonders of the aquarium and our local beaches. There will be a whole lot of love happening on the beach as thousands of silvery grunion fish hurl themselves onto the sand for their strange and fascinating mating ritual.” Kiddos will enjoy grunion-themed arts and crafts, have the chance to touch leopard sharks and view other marine animals in the Aquarium, wander through life-sized inflatable whales, and more. Details and ticket information are available online. 

Saturday, June 14 – Flag Day

Butterfly Encounter
Gilchrist Farm
30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Saugus, CA 91390

If you haven’t yet been, don’t delay – the Butterfly Encounter at Gilchrist Farm will only be available on weekends through Father’s Day. Families will slowly walk through a tent of beautiful flowers and be amazed by the live butterflies flying all around. “Hold some nectar on a sponge to attract a butterfly to land near you.” Butterfly Encounter is available during Farm Visits on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Plus, there are so many other things to see and do while you’re at the Farm, including pony rides, crafts, and panning for gold. Different activities have different fees. Check the website for details. 

Sunday, June 15 – Father’s Day

Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA: Interstellar
888 S. Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90014

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a movie experience! Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA will be screening Interstellar (rated PG-13) starring Anne Hathaway and Matthew McConaughey on Sunday, June 15th at 8:35 pm. Refreshments and concession stand favorites are available for purchase on-site. Tickets are available online. (Note – guests must be at least 16 years old.)

Monday, June 16

GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play
California Science Center     
700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90037

You can spend all day at the California Science Center and not run out of things to see and do. The newest exhibition, GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play, “showcases the powerful connection between science, sports and play, while celebrating the joy of the human body in motion.” The 17,000-square foot exhibition includes many hand-on activities, allowing guests of all ages and abilities “to swing, leap, kick and climb your way through an array of interactive challenges.” You can read more about the exhibition here. And, don’t forget to leave time to see an IMAX movie. Superhuman Body 3D, Blue Whales 3D, The Blue Angels, and Deep Sky (only available on Saturdays and Sundays) are currently playing. Details are available online. (Remember – admission to the Science Center is free. IMAX movies do require the purchase of a separate ticket.)

Tuesday, June 17

BambinO: An Opera for Babies
San Fernando Library
217 N. Maclay Ave., San Fernando, CA 91340

San Fernando Library is hosting BambinO: An Opera for Babies on Tuesday, June 17th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. “This groundbreaking opera was created by LA Opera to engage babies with beautiful and comforting sights and sounds.” The event includes soft pillows, gentle music, and encourages audience participation. Advance registration is required as attendance is limited. (Recommended for children 3 and younger.) 

Wednesday, June 18

Story Time at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum
Berth 84, Foot of 6th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731

The Los Angeles Public Library System and Los Angeles Maritime Museum are working together to offer a special Story Time at the Museum on Wednesday, June 18th from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Children will enjoy stories and songs in the Museum’s family area, which also features toys, games, and a great view of the Port of Los Angeles. (This is a free event.)

Thursday, June 19 – Juneteenth

Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration

Korean Bell of Friendship
3601 Gaffey St., San Pedro, CA

Visit the Korean Bell of Friendship on Thursday, June 19th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm for a Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration. This free event is organized by the LA County African American Employees Association (LACAAEA) and will include live musical performances as well as the ringing of the Korean Bell of Friendship. Free tickets may be reserved online. 

Friday, June 20 – First Day of Summer!

Movies On the Roof: The Sandlot
Westfield Fashion Square
14006 Riverside Dr., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

This summer, Westfield Fashion Square is once again hosting its popular Movies On the Roof series on Friday and Saturday evenings through July 26th. The Sandlot is the first movie of the summer and takes place on Friday, June 20th. “This alfresco movie-screening experience includes comfortable seating on plush bean bag chairs or deep-seated Adirondack chairs,?state-of-the-art projection and sound, complimentary popcorn, and valley views in an upscale event space on the rooftop of Westfield Fashion Square.” Tickets are $10 and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy pre-movie lawn games, music, and raffle giveaways. Doors open at 7:30 pm, and the movie starts at sunset (about 8:30 pm). A Movie Screening Schedule and tickets are available online. (Note – only Westfield Fashion Square eatery food is permitted.) 

Saturday, June 21

Drag Story Hour with Pickle and Friends
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures invites families to Drag Story Hour with Pickle and Friends on Saturday, June 21st from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Each Saturday in June the Museum will be hosting a series of drag story hours featuring the Director of Drag Story Hour Los Angeles, Pickle the Drag Queen, as well as fellow drag artists. Story Hour will feature readings of The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish?by Lil Miss Hot Mess; Feminist Baby?by Loryn Brantz; and It’s Okay to Be Different?by Todd Parr. This is a free event, and no museum admission is required. 

Sunday, June 22

CicLAvia – Historic South Central Meets Watts 
6.4 miles connecting Historic South Central, Florence Firestone, and Watts

The 61st Los Angeles Open Streets Event: CicLAvia – Historic South Central Meets Watts is happening on Sunday, June 22nd from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. This is an all-ages and all-abilities event. Participants may jog, ride, bike, skate, or walk as they explore along the route. Remember, this is not a race; families may enter and exit the route when and where it’s most convenient for them. Details are available online.

Monday, June 23

Lifestyles of the Slimy & Squishy
Washington Irving Branch Library
4117 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018

Visit the Washington Irving Branch Library on Monday, June 23rd at 2:30 pm for “Lifestyles of the Slimy & Squishy.” Children will have the opportunity to observe marine life up-close and personal. Live tidepool animals will be at the museum, including a variety of sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, mussels, sea slugs, sea anemones, and keyhole limpets.” 

Tuesday, June 24

Kidspace Campout

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

Kidspace Campout is a “celebration of the best iconic summer experiences from camping out, fishing, and singing around a campfire and creating camp crafts.” It’s summer camping and road trips done the Kidspace way, using lots of imagination. All activities are included in general admission. Tickets are available online. (Kidspace Campout is happening all summer long through Sunday, September 14th.) 

Wednesday, June 25

21st Annual Lavender Festival
123 Farm
10600 Highland Spring Ave., Cherry Valley, CA 92223

Visit 123 Farm on select days to experience the annual Lavender Festival. Festival Highlights include the opportunity to taste lavender-inspired food and drinks, listen to live musical performances, go on a guided wagon tour, learn how lavender essential oil is extracted, and more. Hours are 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm on select days through July 20th. Tickets are available online. (Note – tickets purchased at the door are more expensive.)

Thursday, June 26

Conejo Valley Days
Conejo Creek Park South
1350 Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

Mark your calendars. Conejo Valley Days are happening Thursday, June 19th through Sunday, June 29th. (Dark on June 23rd and June 24th.) The fun offers something for everyone including carnival rides, live musical performances, food, games, local vendors, and more. Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays: 5 pm to 10 pm, Fridays 5 pm to 11 pm, Saturdays 1 pm to 11 pm, and Sundays 1 pm to 9 pm. Details and ticket information are available online.

Friday, June 27

Salute to America
Cypress College
9200 Valley View St., Cypress, CA 

The City of Cypress is celebrating our country’s birthday a few days early with its Salute to America event happening on Friday, June 27th from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy live music, a family fun zone, on-site food trucks, vendors, and a fireworks display (starting at 9:00 pm). 

Saturday, June 28

Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival, described as “celebrating the best of beach life,” takes place on Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th. The free, all-ages festival features ocean sports competitions (such as beach volleyball, paddle board races, and ocean swims), live music, games, food, and much more. Check the website for details.  

Sunday, June 29

2025 Day of the Ancestors: Festival of the Masks
4343 Leimert Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008

2025 Day of the Ancestors: Festival of the Masks is happening on Sunday, June 29th from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. This annual celebration features dance and music performances as well as a procession through the streets symbolizing “people’s power and capacity to take ownership over their community, address challenges and create change.” Register online for this free event.

Monday, June 30

59th Annual Sawdust Art Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach 92651

The 59th Annual Sawdust Art Festival runs from Friday, June 27th through Sunday, August 31st. The Sawdust Art Festival, described as “Laguna’s most iconic summer tradition,” features the artwork of over 185 artists, live musical performances, complimentary art classes, live art demonstrations, and a variety of outdoor dining and drink offerings. Details are available online.

Related: 10 Things you can do at the Los Angeles Public Library System

Related: Free Summer Reading Programs

Related: Read our list of all the Outdoor Summer Movies!

Click here to read our Guide to the Skirball Cultural Center.

Things To Do in Los Angeles Every Day in July, 2025

Tuesday, July 1

El Capitan Theatre: Elio
6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028

The newest Disney-Pixar film Elio is being shown at the El Capitan Theatre from Thursday, June 19th through Sunday, July 20th. “The cosmic misadventure introduces Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination and a huge alien obsession. Mistakenly identified as Earth’s leader, Elio must form new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions, and somehow discover who and where he is truly meant to be.” Specialty screenings on other days include Sensory Inclusive Screenings, Open Caption Screenings, and Spanish Dubbed Screenings. Multiple screenings are planned on Tuesday, July 1st including a 3D screening at 1:00 pm. The animated film is 1 hour 39 minutes long and is rated PG. Details and tickets are available online.

Wednesday, July 2

Wild Man Dan Show
Gardena Mayme Dear Library
1731 W. Gardena Blvd., Gardena, CA 90247

Gardena Mayme Dear Library is hosting the Wild Man Dan Show on Wednesday, July 2nd from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Wild Man Dan will explore the “the amazing world of reptiles, arachnids, and other fascinating animals, emphasizing respect for wildlife while delivering essential safety tips.” The show includes live animals and real-life demonstrations. Advance registration is required as attendance is limited. 

Thursday, July 3

Concerts on Cañon
Beverly Cañon Gardens
241 N. Cañon Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210

This summer the City of Beverly Hills will once again host “Concerts on Cañon” each Thursday evening (through August 21st) from 6 pm to 8 pm. Pack a picnic or enjoy a meal from one of the nearby restaurants and get ready to enjoy a free concert featuring musicians performing in a variety of musical styles including classic rock, Brazilian, Persian, jazz, and more. On July 3rd, Smokin’ Cobras will be performing Rockin’ Oldies. (Note – There is no concert scheduled on July 17th.)

Friday, July 4

Councilmember Bob Blumenfield’s July 4th Extravaganza 2025!
Warner Park
5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Councilmember Bob Blumenfield’s Annual July 4th Extravaganza is happening from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert featuring Strange Days, a Tribute to The Doors, and a spectacular 20-minute fireworks display. More than 15 local food trucks will be on-site as well as many arts-and-crafts vendors and local businesses promoting and selling their goods. The event is free, and there is limited free parking in the area. However, parking in the structures is $25 – cash only – and all parking fees serve as a donation to the Valley Cultural Foundation. Details, including safety guidelines, and tickets are available online. (Tickets are free, though VIP options are available for a fee.)

Click here to read our post: Best Fourth of July Celebrations In Los Angeles

Saturday, July 5

Pageant of the Masters
650 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, CA 92651

The Pageant of the Masters begins on Saturday, July 5th and continues with nightly performances (at 8:30 pm) through Friday, August 29th. This year’s theme is “Gold Coast: Treasures of California.” “This epic show takes you on an unforgettable journey along California’s coast, showcasing masterpieces from world-class museums like the Getty, LACMA, Laguna Art Museum, de Young Museum, Timken Museum of Art, and more, plus iconic monuments from some of the state’s most famous cities. With living pictures, original music, and captivating storytelling, the Pageant brings California’s rich legacy to life in a way you won’t want to miss.” This special event where “art comes to life,” is a must-see for many families each summer. And remember – Pageant tickets also give you unlimited access to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show. Details and tickets are available online.

Sunday, July 6

Public Train Ride Days
Southern California Live Steamers Miniature Railroad
Wilson Park (southeast corner of the park)
2100 Washington Ave., Torrance, CA 

Southern California Live Steamers hosts Public Train Ride Days at Wilson Park on the first Sunday (11:00 am to 3:00 pm) and third Saturday (12:00 pm to 3:00 pm) of each month. Learn about steam and diesel locomotives, and enjoy a ride on a miniature railroad. (Keep in mind – to ride the trains, children must be able to walk on their own and be at least 32” tall.)

Monday, July 7

Norton Simon Museum
411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91105

The collection at the Norton Simon Museum is “comprised of about 12,000 objects that showcase—amongst other superlative works— the only painting by Raphael on the west coast, three portraits by Rembrandt, six superb paintings by Van Gogh, over one-hundred works by Degas, and an important collection of Indian and Southeast Asian sculpture that spans over 2500 years of the world’s finest cultural creations.” Plus, it’s not a multi-building museum, meaning a family can walk through, in its entirety, in one visit. Current exhibitions include Retrospect: 50 Years at the Norton Simon Museum. Advance tickets are recommended and available online. Admission is free for children 17 and under, students with ID, and active military personnel (ID required). The Museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. (Note – the outdoor Sculpture Garden is currently closed for repairs and improvements.)

Tuesday, July 8

LAPD Read Along
Junipero Serra Branch Library
4607 S. Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Visit the Junipero Serra Branch Library on Tuesday, July 8th at 3:30 pm for LAPD Read Along. Children will “share the joy of reading and a craft with an LAPD officer.”

Wednesday, July 9

2025 Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival
Old Zoo in Griffith Park
(Use “Merry Go Round Lot Two” for directions on where to park)

The Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival starts on Wednesday, June 25th and continues through Sunday, August 31st, Wednesdays through Sundays. The Festival includes two productions — Love’s Labour’s Lost and Doctor Faustus. “Alongside these extraordinary productions, we’ll have special events all summer long, including workshops, theme nights, and community engagement activations.” Performances and parking are free. Seating on the grass is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may RSVP online. Check the website for all the details. (Note – there is no performance on the 4th of July.)

Thursday, July 10

Chinese American Museum
El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument
425 N. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Chinese American Museum is “housed in one of the oldest and last surviving structure of Los Angeles’ original Chinatown.” The 7200-square foot museum is “dedicated to researching, preserving, and sharing the experiences and contributions of Chinese Americans in the United States through quality exhibitions, programs, and events.” (Be)Spoken: Poems from Our Asian American Voices is one of the museum’s current exhibitions, and the Sun Wing Wo General Store and Herb Shop, a permanent exhibition, is a recreation of an actual store from the 1890s. The Chinese American Museum is open four days a week from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays). (Suggested admission is $3 for adults; $2 for seniors 60+ and students with ID.)

Friday, July 11

Movies in the Park 2025: Moana 2
Whaley Park
5620 E. Atherton St., Long Beach, CA

The City of Long Beach is hosting a summer “Movies in the Park” series through August 22nd. The free screenings feature family-friendly films, movie-themed crafts, raffles, and a jumper for the kiddos. On the 11th, sit back and enjoy Moana 2.  Movies start at 6:00 pm so feel free to pack a picnic and enjoy dinner and a movie in the park! (The movie is rated PG.)

Saturday, July 12

44th Lotus Festival
Echo Park Lake
751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026

The 44th Lotus Festival is happening on Saturday, July 12th and Sunday, July 13th. This year’s festival celebrates the People and Culture of the Republic of Korea. This free annual event features food, live musical and dance performances, dragon boat races, handcrafted artwork, community booths, and much more. Details are available online. (Note – the Inaugural Lotus Flower 5K Run/Walk takes place on Sunday, July 13th.)

Sunday, July 13

Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun
Crypto.com Arena
1111 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Our Los Angeles Sparks take on the Connecticut Sun during a Sunday afternoon game on July 13th. The game starts at 3:00 pm which gives you plenty of time to enjoy some of the many things to see and do at L.A. LIVE across the street from Crypto.com Arena. (Doors open at 2:00 pm.) Tickets are available online or may be purchased at the box office. 

Monday, July 14

Fierce! The Story of Cats
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007

Explore the diversity of cats in the new exhibition, Fierce! The Story of Cats, opening at the Natural History Museum on Sunday, July 13th. Fierce! The Story of Cats is described as an “exciting, hands-on, immersive experience that brings you face-to-face with the world of cats. From sabertooths to household kitty cats, explore their unique behaviors, evolution, biology, and deep connection with humans.” The exhibition features mounted specimens, cultural objects inspired by cats, interactive displays, and more. Tickets are available online. (The exhibition will be on view through February 18th, 2026.) 

Tuesday, July 15

Storytime @ Rancho Los Cerritos
4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach, CA

Each Tuesday morning at 10:00 am, Rancho Los Cerritos hosts a Storytime for families with young children. Staff and volunteers will sing songs and read from “the best young children’s books from diverse authors.” Benches will be set up; however, families are welcome to bring their own picnic blankets and snacks. RSVP online for this free event. 

Wednesday, July 16

Summer Movie Nights
The Point
850 S. Pacific Coast Hwy, El Segundo, CA

The Point hosts Summer Movie Nights each Wednesday evening in July from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. “Shop, dine, and simmer down at Summer Movie Nights” featuring family-friendly movies. On July 16th, get ready for a timeless classic — E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. (A complete list of movies being shown throughout the month is available online.) 

Thursday, July 17

Concerts in the Park
Del Valle Park
5939 Henrilee St., Lakewood, CA 90713

During the summer, the City of Lakewood hosts free Thursday night concerts from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. On July 17th, Britain’s Finest, a Beatles Tribute Band, is scheduled to perform. Dinner and refreshments will be sold on-site; however, families may also bring their own picnics. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. (Concerts are scheduled each week through August 7th.) 

Friday, July 18

2025 OC Fair – Find Your Happy
88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Mark your calendars. The annual OC Fair begins Friday, July 18th and continues through Sunday, August 17th. This year’s theme is “Find Your Happy.” “With acres of mouthwatering Fair food, heart-pounding carnival rides, adorable farm animals and spectacular competitions, there’s something for everyone!” Plus, there’s live entertainment, shopping, special exhibits, and much more! Also, be sure to check out the Read & Ride program for children ages 5-11. (Children read 3 books, fill out an online form, and will earn a QR code valid for 2 free rides in Kidland.) Advance tickets are required and are available online. Visit the OC Fair on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. Visit the OC Fair on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 am to Midnight. (Admission is free for children 5 and younger.)

Saturday, July 19

Plastic Free July Nothin’ But Sand Beach Cleanup
Redondo Beach, near Veterans Park & the Pier

Heal the Bay is planning a Plastic Free July Nothin’ But Sand Beach Cleanup for Saturday, July 19th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. “Help remove hundreds of pounds of harmful marine debris with volunteers from all over Los Angeles and Heal the Bay.” Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own reusable cleanup supplies. In addition, special programming starts at 11:15 am. Participants will have the chance to “connect with fellow volunteers, learn more about Heal the Bay, engage in community discussion, hear talks from marine scientists, environmental policy specialists, and more.” Details, including registration information, are available online.

Sunday, July 20

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

Sunday,July 20th is Family Science Sunday at Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC). This free 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, July 20th is Veterinary Simulator. Families will have the chance to get an up-close look at how the veterinary team at MMCC cares for sick and injured animals. “From malnourished animals to those unable to eat on their own, you’ll watch a demonstration using a stuffed animal marine mammal to simulate how our veterinary team assesses, diagnoses, and treats real patients. Learn how our animal care team performs patient intakes, makes medical decisions, and uses specialized techniques to support recovery.” The program is described as a “hands-on simulation” offering a “a rare and engaging glimpse into the lifesaving work happening every day at our facility.” Reserve your tickets online. This is a free event, and 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.)

Monday, July 21

Movie Mondays: A League of Their Own
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Argyros Plaza
600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626

As part of its Movie Mondays program, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is hosting an outdoor screening of A League of Their Own on Monday, July 21st. The movie starts at 8:00 pm, but families may arrive as early as 5:30 pm. Pre-show movie activities start at 6:30 pm. Families may bring your own snacks, chairs, blankets, and picnics, though food trucks will also be on-site. This is a free event, and no pre-registration is required. (The movie is rated PG.)

Tuesday, July 22
Jurassic Beach

Outlets at San Clemente
101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, CA 92672

If you have a dinosaur-lover in the family, you’ll want to plan to visit the Outlets at San Clemente sometime between July 2 and July 28th to check out a free dinosaur exhibit called Jurassic Beach. “Jurassic Beach is an interactive experience featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Take a trip back in time to meet the dinosaurs and marine reptiles that lived here 66 million years ago.” The exhibit is open to all ages and is free for everyone to experience and enjoy. Details, including some behind-the-scenes photos and  information explaining how the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs are made, are available online. 

Wednesday, July 23

PLAY at the Steps
The Culver Steps
9300 Culver Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232

The Culver Steps invites families to PLAY at the Steps on Wednesday, July 23rd at 10:00 am. This free event is designed for children 6 years old and younger and no pre-registration is required. “Babies and toddlers alike gain an early appreciation for music, while enhancing brain development, listening, communication, reasoning, social, and motor skills. Please bring a blanket.” Complimentary 1-hour parking. (PLAY at the Steps is offered each Wednesday through August 27th.)

Thursday, July 24

Summer Movie Fest: Sky High
California State University Northridge (CSUN) – Library Lawn
18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA 91330

California State University Northridge (CSUN) invites the community to attend its Summer Movie Fest, a series of family-friendly movies shown on Thursdays (through August 7th). Food (on-site food trucks) and music start at 6:00 pm. On July 24th, Sky High (rated PG) is the movie of the evening. Movies begin at dusk. See the complete movie line-up online. (While the event is free to attend, standard campus parking rates do apply.)

Friday, July 25

Dance DTLA

The Music Center – Jerry Moss Plaza
135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Music Center’s Dance DTLA is a free series of summer dance parties happening on six select Friday nights this summer. Participants are invited to learn new dance styles — “Bollywood, Afrobeats, salsa, cumbia, reggaeton and disco—with free, easy-to-follow beginner dance lessons taught by top L.A. dance artists and instructors.” After each dance lesson, participants will have the chance to try out their new dance moves. No prior dance experience is required. On Friday, July 25th Dennis Guzman will be leading the evening with Reggaeton instruction. 

Saturday, July 26

D23 X SFC Present: Toy Story (30th Anniversary)
The Autry Museum
4700 Western Heritage Way., Los Angeles, CA 90027

D23 X SFC Present an outdoor screening of the Disney-Pixar film Toy Story happening on Saturday, July 26th. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the movie starts at 8:30 pm. Food trucks will be on-site as well. Tickets are available online.

Sunday, July 27

Puppets in the Park
Barnsdall Park – Hollyhock House
4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Families are invited to enjoy Puppets in the Park, a free outdoor performance featuring the Bob Baker Marionette Theater on Sunday, July 27th. The morning includes the 30-minute performance of Hooray LA, as well as family art activities led by Barnsdall Junior Arts Center instructors. Gates open at 9:00 am and performances take place from 9:30 am to 10:00 am and 11:00 am to 11:30 am. Family art activities take place from 10:00 am to 11:00 am and 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring your picnic blankets. 

Monday, July 28

L.A. Kings Storytime with Bailey and the Ice Crew
Angeles Mesa Branch Library
2700 W. 52nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90043

Visit the Angeles Mesa Branch Library on Monday, July 28 from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm for a special event, L.A. Kings Storytime with Bailey and the Ice Crew. Bailey and the L.A. Kings Ice Crew will be on-hand for a special reading of B is for Bailey. Plus, children will have the chance to meet Bailey. This is an all-ages event. (Note – this special storytime is limited to 30 minutes; be sure to arrive on time.)

Tuesday, July 29

Stick Structures
West Hollywood Library
625 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069

The West Hollywood Library invites children (ages 5-12) to its Stick Structures program on Tuesday, July 29th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. “Learn about some of the rulebreakers in architecture and put your own structural engineering skills to the test by building a stick structure!” (Note – this event is also happening at the Acton Agua Dulce Library, Willowbrook Library, and Bell Express Library.)

Wednesday, July 30

International Surf Festival

Multiple locations in Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance, and Hermosa Beach, CA

The City of Torrance is the host city for the 62nd International Surf Festival which begins Wednesday, July 30th and continues through Sunday, August 3rd. “Participants range in age from 8 years old to the late 80’s. The three signature events for the festival are the Judge Taplin Lifeguard Medley Relay, the Dwight Crum Pier-to-Pier Swim, and the Charlie Saikley 6-Man Volleyball Tournament. Other great events include a surfing contest, bodysurfing contest, beach run, paddleboard races, dory race, and youth events.” Check the website for a schedule of events.

Thursday, July 31

Summer Music Series 2025 – Altadena Musicians Month: Celebrating Artists Impacted By the Fires
The Original Farmers Market
6333 W. Third St., Los Angeles, CA 90036

All summer long (through August 28th), families can enjoy live musical performances at The Original Farmers Market. Performances take place on Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The month of July is Altadena Musicians Month, a series dedicated to artists impacted by the fires. Additionally, Altadenamusicians.org has been on-site, “collecting donations for their online musical registry service that unites people with instruments they lost in the fires.” On the 31st, The Moontones are scheduled to perform ‘50s Rhythm & Blues. Plus, while you’re there, take a night off from dinner duty and treat the family to dinner from one of the many eateries and restaurants at The Farmers Market.

Things To Do in Los Angeles Every Day in August, 2025

Friday, August 1

Ventura County Fair
Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center
10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001

Families are invited to come out and enjoy the Ventura County Fair. The Fair is open daily from Wednesday, July 30th through Sunday, August 10th from 12 pm to 11 pm each day. The fun includes concerts, food, carnival rides, special exhibits, and much more. Be sure to check the website for details and ticket information as well as the dates of special promotion days (such as Youth Day on Friday, August 1st, when kids 12 and younger are free with paid adult admission). 

Saturday, August 2

Concerts in the Park
Central Park
27150 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita, CA 91350

The City of Santa Clarita invites families to enjoy its Concerts in the Park series on Saturdays (through August 30th). Concerts begin at 7:00 pm, but come early because food trucks will be on-site beginning at 5:00 pm. Families are also invited to bring their own picnics. Don’t forget lawn chairs and picnic blankets. On the 2nd, Redneck Rodeo will be performing Country Hits. (Note – The 2025 series marks the city’s “milestone 35th year of music, community and summer fun.”)

Sunday, August 3

Marina del Rey WaterBus
Multiple locations 

The Marina del Rey WaterBus began its summer season on Friday, June 20th. The WaterBus operates from eight stops in the Marina which makes it a fun way to take in all the sights and sounds of Marina del Rey. The WaterBus generally operates Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (as well as Fourth of July and Labor Day). Tickets are available at each stop and are $1 per passenger, one way, cash only. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date operating hours and a map of the route taken by the WaterBus. 

Monday, August 4

StoryWalk® at the L.A. Zoo: Señorita Mariposa and Not a Monster
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Next time you visit the L.A. Zoo, be sure to take time to explore the the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo and follow the pages of Señorita Mariposa and Not a Monster for a self-directed StoryWalk®. The L.A. Zoo and L.A. Public Library System have formed this unique partnership  which gives families the chance to discover a new story (or two) during your next outing to the Zoo. “StoryWalks® are a fun and innovative way to engage young readers and encourage activities that build early literacy skills like talking, reading, singing, writing, and playing.” (Available during regular Zoo hours.) 

Tuesday, August 5

California African American Museum
Exposition Park
600 State Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90037

The California African American Museum, located within Exposition Park, is “the first African American museum of art, history, and culture fully supported by a state.” The Museum’s permanent collection consists of over 5,000 items ranging from the 1800s to the present day and include “paintings, photographs, film, sculpture, historical documents, and artifacts, and it spans nineteenth-century landscape paintings to modern artworks to contemporary mixed-media reflections on cultural and political events.” The Museum hosts a number of special events and programs throughout the year, including many family-friendly programs. (Admission is always free; parking in Exposition Park is $20 during the day, and $24 after 5 pm. Open six days a week, closed on Mondays – except MLK Day.)

Wednesday, August 6

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument and Olvera Street
125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012

When was the last time your family enjoyed a leisurely stroll along Olvera Street? Take in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes here at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, recognized as “the historic heart and birthplace of Los Angeles.” There is much to see and do including visiting the Chinese American Museum and the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles, viewing Pico House and Avila Adobe, and much more. Come hungry – you’ll find many delicious cafes and restaurants to choose from. 

Thursday, August 7

Cinema Botanica: Giants Rising
California Botanic Garden
1500 N. College Ave., Claremont, CA 91711

California Botanic Garden is hosting Cinema Botanic, a “nature-themed outdoor film series,” on Thursday, August 7th from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. On Thursday, settle in for a screening of Giants Rising. “Discover the secrets, superpowers and saga of America’s iconic redwood trees—the tallest and some of the oldest living beings on Earth. It’s an epic tale that explores the wonders of these silent giants and the many ways that their stories are deeply entwined with ours.” Each paid ticket includes a free popcorn with optional native plant infused topping. Doors open at 7:00 pm for pre-movie fun including trivia and a craft activity. The movie starts at about 8:00 pm. Folding chairs will be provided, but families may also bring their own lawn chairs. Tickets are available online.

Friday, August 8 

Beach Movie Nights: The Garfield Movie
Dockweiler Youth Center
12505 Vista Del Mar, Playa del Rey, CA 90293

Enjoy a free screening “on the sand, by the waves, and under the stars” of The Garfield Movie (rated PG) on Friday, August 8th at 8:00 pm. No tickets are required, but be sure to RSVP so you can be notified of any last-minute changes. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. (Parking is $3 after 6 pm.) Be sure to bundle up. (Each Friday evening, through August 29th, the Department of Beaches and Harbors will host this weekly Beach Movie Nights series.)

Saturday, August 9

Nisei Week Japanese Festival
Little Tokyo District in Downtown LA

The Nisei Week Japanese Festival begins on Saturday, August 9th and continues through Sunday, August 17th. A number of special events are planned including cultural exhibits inside the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC – August 9th and 10th), a Grand Parade in Little Tokyo (on August 10th from 4 pm to 6 pm), Plaza Festival (at the JACCC Plaza on August 16th and 17th), the Japanese American National Museum Natsumatsuri Family Festival (on August 16th), and more. Full details, including a schedule and parking information, are available online.  

Sunday, August 10

Garden Concerts for Kids: Kymberly Stewart
Getty Center – Lower Central Garden
1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049

The Getty Center invites families to its Garden Concerts for Kids featuring Kymberly Stewart on Saturday, August 9th and Sunday, August 10th at 4:00 pm each day. Kymberly Stewart’s songs “blend jazz, gospel, and soulful pop, creating a sound that lifts up kids while keeping grown-ups grooving too. With lyrics that speak to children and music that resonates with the whole family, Kymberly brings a warm, welcoming energy to every performance, inspiring kids to shine as their true selves.” Admission is free, though a timed-entry reservation is required. (Note – there is a fee for parking.)

Monday, August 11

AMC Summer Movie Camp: The Secret Life of Pets
AMC Burbank 16
125 E. Palm Ave., Burbank, CA 91502

As part of its AMC Summer Movie Camp (which concludes on August 13th), families can enjoy The Secret Life of Pets back on the big screen on Monday, August 11th and Wednesday, August 13th. The movie is 1 hour 31 minutes long and is rated PG. Tickets are available online.  

Tuesday, August 12

Todder Sing-Along
Skirball Cultural Center
2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049

If you haven’t visited the Skirball Cultural Center in a while, plan an outing for a Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon. Because on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons at 3:15 pm, Skirball Educators lead toddlers in a special sing-along aboard Noah’s Ark. “Caregivers, babies, and young children will learn songs and lap games, meeting new friends as they sing, move, and play together.” Tickets are available online. 

Wednesday, August 13

Summer Concert in the Park
Verdugo Park (North End)
1621 Cañada Blvd., Glendale, CA 91208

The City of Glendale hosts Summer Concerts in the Park on Wednesday and Friday evenings (from July 2nd through August 29th). Concerts start at 7:00 pm. Families may bring along lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and a picnic dinner to enjoy during the performance. On the 13th, The Dreamboats will be performing 50’s and 60’s Pop/Rock.

Thursday, August 14

Occidental Children’s Theater
Hillside Theater
1600 Campus Road, Los Angeles, CA 90041

The highly acclaimed Occidental Children’s Theater celebrates 30 years with this summer’s special 7-week outdoor run at Hillside Theater. This summer, enjoy a production of Rapunzilla, The Monster with the Golden Hair. “In about an hour, our fearless cast of six will perform energetic and funny stories without props, sets or special costumes, relying only on their acting and acrobatic skills.” Performances will be held on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 10:00 am, from July 10th through August 23rd. Tickets are available online.

Friday, August 15

Open Clay Time
Craft Contemporary
5814 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

On Friday, August 15th (and all Fridays throughout the summer), Craft Contemporary offers Open Clay Time. The “open-ended, air-dry clay drop-in classes” are open to all ages. The activity is available on a first- come, first-served basis. “Try your hand at a selection of clay projects using simple sculpting and joining techniques.” All participants must pay the materials fee of $7.

Saturday, August 16

44th Annual Wings Over Camarillo
Camarillo Airport
555 Airport Way, Camarillo, CA 

The 44th Annual Wings Over Camarillo event, described as “the premier air show on the central coast of California,” is happening on Saturday, August 16th and Sunday, August 17th. This year’s event will focus on honoring the wildfire community responders, “not only the brave men and women who risked their lives fighting the fires, but also those who provided help and comfort to all the victims of the disasters.” The festivities include a Car Show, incredible Air Show, STEM activities, vendors, children’s activities, static aircraft display, and more. Gates open at 9:00 am and the air demonstration starts at noon each day. A schedule of events, as well as ticket information, are available online. 

Sunday, August 17

Open House

Pasadena Model Railroad Museum (PMRRM)
5458 Alhambra Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90032

Families are invited to the Pasadena Model Railroad Museum’s Open House on Sunday, August 17th (and the third Sunday of each month) from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. PMRRM “operates one of the largest HO scale model railroads in the world, the 5000 square foot (70? x 72?) Sierra Pacific Lines.” If your kiddos are interested in trains, make a plan to visit. Cameras are welcome, and if you have them, binoculars are suggested. (Suggested donation of $7 for adults, $2 for children, children under 7 are free.)

Monday, August 18

Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World
Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens invites families to visit its newest exhibition Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World. The exhibition “invites visitors to connect to and cultivate appreciation for the life-giving role trees and shade play in making urban neighborhoods livable. In a warming world, shade and the cooling benefits of trees are essential, but not every community has the same access.” The exhibition includes outdoor installations as well as a group art exhibition at the Sturt Haaga Gallery and Boddy House, including visual and musical pieces. The exhibition is included in general admission and is available 10:00 am to 4:00 pm each day, through October 12th, 2025. Details and tickets are available online.

Tuesday, August 19

Brick Builders
LA Central Library
630 W. 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Families are invited to visit the LA Central Library on Tuesday afternoons from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm for a “weekly drop-in creative playtime this summer using building bricks to express your imagination.” Recommended for children ages 6-11. Email [email protected] for more information. 

Wednesday, August 20

Sonic Playground 
GRAMMY Museum
800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015

“Sonic Playground is a groundbreaking and interactive experience that transforms music-making into an engaging, hands-on adventure by merging creativity, education, and cutting-edge technology into one captivating space.” The second floor of the GRAMMY Museum has been transformed to feature 17 interactive experiences that give visitors the chance to explore their creativity. “From producing beats and mixing loops, to performing on stage with professional instruments, visitors can step into roles like singer, producer, or disc jockey and experience the joy of music creation.” Plus, families will want to check out Electric Forest, a “mesmerizing blend of music, lights, and technology that epitomizes the intersection of art and technology. Visitors interact with 16 immersive columns of light and sound that respond to gestures, altering the sound and intensity of an original 19-minute composition by Shaun Chasin and allowing visitors to create their own musical symphonies through movement.” Free youth admission for visitors 17 and younger. Details and tickets are available online. (Note – the Museum is open six days a week; closed on Tuesdays.)

Thursday, August 21

Ice Age Encounters
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum invites families to experience Ice Age Encounters on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. The 15-minute show “features a life-size adult saber-toothed cat puppet, a live performance, and film projections that bring the distant past to life.” While you’re at the Museum, families may also watch Titans of the Ice Age 3D, narrated by Christopher Plummer. The film is shown multiple times throughout the day and depicts “an icy world on the brink of extinction, where humans share the frozen tundra with majestic beasts.” And, at 1:00 pm each day, families can participate in an outdoor Excavator Tour which “explores the Fossil Lab where real paleontologists work, our historic excavation sites, and Project 23, where live excavations can be seen.” Details and ticket information are available online. 

Friday, August 22

Movies & Moonlight: Moana 2
2nd & PCH
6440 Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90803

2nd & PCH is hosting an outdoor screening of the Disney film Moana 2 on Friday, August 22nd. Seating starts at 5:00 pm, and the movie starts at sunset. Plus, there will be a meet-and-greet opportunity with a special character and a lei-making craft starting at 6:00 pm. Families are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. Register online for this free event.  (The movie is rated PG.)

Saturday, August 23

Movies Under the Stars: Coco
One Colorado
41 Hugus Alley, Pasadena, CA 91103

As part of its Movies Under the Stars series, One Colorado is hosting a complimentary screening of the Disney-Pixar film Coco on Saturday, August 23rd at 8:30 pm. A VIP premier seating option is available for a fee. To make the public seating as comfortable as possible families are invited to bring their favorite blankets, chairs, and movie snacks to the event. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP online. (The movie is rated PG.)

Sunday, August 24

Butterfly Pavilion
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007

The annual Butterfly Pavilion, where “wonder takes flight,” is at the Natural History Museum until Sunday, August 24th, and you don’t want to miss it! Wander around the Pavilion, which features “hundreds of butterflies, colorful native plants, and plenty of natural light to help you see these creatures shimmer.” Look closely and you’ll be able to count up to 30 different species. You’ll also see all stages of the butterfly life cycle including eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalises. Timed tickets are required and are available online. 

Monday, August 25

Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Berth 87, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731

“USS IOWA has become one of the top-rated attractions in Los Angeles,” giving visitors the opportunity to “follow in the footsteps of sailors and presidents.” Battleship USS IOWA is the only battleship on the West Coast that is open to the public. A visit to this famous battleship provides your family with the opportunity to explore history in a very up-close-and-personal way. A variety of tour options are available including self-guided tours and guided tours, each with a different focus. The Battleship IOWA Experience, Tours, and Museum is open daily from 10:00 am, with the last tour starting at 4:00 pm. Details and tickets are available online. 

Tuesday, August 26

Santa Ana Zoo
Prentice Park
1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92701

“Through fun, adventure, and learning, the Santa Ana Zoo empowers its community to save wildlife and wild spaces.” The Zoo is small and features South American animals and is also known for monkeys and primate conservation. It’s size makes it a great place to visit with small children. The Zoo is also a Botanical Garden. “As you wander, take time to smell the rosemary or the lemon-scented gum tree, see rubber plants and banana trees from the jungles of South America, and admire the giant bromeliads and Hong Kong orchids.” And don’t forget the rides – including the Conservation Carrousel, the Zoofari Express (an electric train), and the 50 Monkeys Ferris Wheel. The Santa Ana Zoo is open Monday to Friday from10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. (Note – Ride hours are Friday from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.) Tickets are available online. 

Wednesday, August 27

Disney Animated Films
California Heritage Museum
2612 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405

The California Heritage Museum presents the Disney Animated Films exhibition, on loan from the Hilbert Collection. The exhibition showcases “more than 100 original works of art from the production of Disney’s most cherished animated classics. This unprecedented collection offers visitors an intimate glimpse behind the scenes of filmmaking history through original animation cels, concept drawings and paintings, storyboards, and production artwork.” Each week a different Disney film is screened. During the last week of August (August 27-August 31) 101 Dalmatians is the movie of the week, with screenings at Noon and 2:00 pm each day the museum is open. The exhibition continues through November 2nd. To ensure seats are available, groups of 4 or more should RSVP. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. (General admission: $10; seniors & students: $5; children under 12: free; free admission to military with ID, to teachers, and to all on Fridays.) (Note – if you visit on Sunday, families can also enjoy the Farmers Market which takes place in the Museum’s parking lot.)

Thursday, August 28

City of South El Monte’s Summer Night Market
1459 Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte, CA

The City of South El Monte’s Summer Night Market is happening on Thursday, August 28 from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Activities include a Kids Corner, local vendors, a live musical performance (featuring Soto), and more. Free admission.

Friday, August 29

Jazz at LACMA: Trevor Ware & Positive People featuring Sidney Jacobs
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) – Smidt Welcome Plaza
5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

“Celebrate L.A.’s finest jazz musicians with Jazz at LACMA, presented Friday evenings from May through October.” On Friday, August 29th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Trevor Ware & Positive People featuring Sidney Jacobs will perform. “Trevor Ware & Positive People featuring Sidney Jacobs is a band of dynamic musicians led by Grammy-winning composer and bassist Trevor Ware. The band’s mission is to simply make audiences feel good by sharing spirit on stage.” Jazz at LACMA is a free event.

Saturday, August 30 

Live Entertainment
The Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210

The Americana at Brand is the place for live weekend entertainment all summer long. Enjoy a variety of musical genres during these weekly performances. Performances are scheduled on Saturdays (6 pm to 9 pm) and Sundays (3 pm to 6 pm) through September 1st, 2025. Additionally, complimentary fruit popsicles will be offered to those in attendance. 

Sunday, August 31

Concert in the Park: Britain’s Finest
Polliwog Park Amphitheater
1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

The City of Manhattan Beach concludes its annual Concert in the Park series on Sunday, August 31st from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Britain’s Finest, “So Cal’s very own foremost Beatles tribute band,” will be performing. “The group transcends far above other Beatles tributes due to their precise attention to detail and appearance.” Families are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. (Note – arrive early for the best seating. These concerts are usually very well-attended.)

Monday, September 1 – Labor Day

A Midsummer Night’s Dream 
Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum
1419 N. Topanga Canyon, Topanga, CA 

Visit Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum and enjoy its signature production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. “The most magical outdoor setting in Los Angeles becomes an enchanted forest inhabited by lovers both fairy and human. Shakespeare conjures a world of wonder, magic, and romance where comical misunderstandings and the pain of unrequited love are resolved. All is reconciled through midsummer night revelries and the enduring power of nature.” Performances are scheduled on select dates through September 15th, including a performance on Labor Day, Monday, September 1st at 6:00 pm. Ticket information is available online.

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

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).

Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.