2023 HolidayGuide: 170+ Holiday Events for Kids in Southern California
November 22, 2023
Find holiday events for kids in Southern California! Special holiday shows, seasonal attractions, parades, festivals, multicultural celebrations, and more!
Latest Posts
Halloween Day Events & Trick-or-Treating at Shopping Centers
November 1, 2023
Looking for something fun to do on Halloween day? Lots of shopping centers are offering the opportunity for kids to trick-or-treat!
Día de los Muertos Celebrations in Southern California: A Colorful & Festive Tradition
October 25, 2023
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a vibrant and heartfelt celebration deeply rooted in Mexican culture. Though it might sound spooky, this holiday is anything but scary…. View Article
Q&A: Brettso the Great – LA & Orange County’s Children Magician
October 24, 2023
We got to chat with Brettso the Great about his magical career! Brettso is a professional magician specializing in entertain children and family audiences. He’s performs over 200 magic shows a year for children’s parties, libraries, schools, and other family-friendly events across LA & Orange County.
Eclipse Viewing Parties in LA & Orange County – Where to Watch This Solar Showdown in Southern California
October 11, 2023
The sky is getting ready to stage a celestial extravaganza! On Saturday, October 14, 2023, Southern California will be treated to a mesmerizing annular solar eclipse. Find out where to go to view this stellar spectacle!
Halloween Events in Southern California – 2023
November 1, 2023
The ultimate guide to Halloween events for kids in Southern California. From pumpkin patches to haunted mazes to trick-or-treating, this year’s Halloween is better than ever!
Southern California Corn Mazes 2023
November 1, 2023
Find the best corn mazes in Southern California! Get lost in corn stalks over 10 feet tall, climb hay pyramids, and see if you can reach the end!
Southern California Pumpkin Patch Guide 2023
November 1, 2023
The ultimate list of pumpkin patches in Long Beach, Orange County, Los Angeles County, and beyond! Get lost in a corn maze, feed the farm animals, play games, go on rides, and hunt down the perfect pumpkin.
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 23-24 New Issue – Career Day
November 20, 2023
Welcome to Kidsguide’s Career Day! Our newest issue explores a world of wild, wacky, and wonderfully interesting careers. We show you places that inspire kids to dream big about who they want to be when they grow up—and now we want to hear about it from your kids!
Tips & Tricks You Need to Know Before Carving a Pumpkin!
September 26, 2023
Follow these helpful tips on how to pick a pumpkin, carving hacks, tracing tricks, and preservation methods to keep your pumpkin lasting longer!
How 4th Graders & Their Families Get Free Entry to National & State Lands
September 15, 2023
Did you know your 4th graders can get you free access to hundreds of national and state parks, lands, and waters for an entire school year? Find out how!
10 Things Parents Forget to Bring When Trick-or-Treating
September 25, 2023
Got everything you need for a cool night of candy and chaos? Here’s a checklist to make sure you’re prepared for whatever the night brings! Plus: a few tips and tricks on what to do before and after.
65+ Non-Candy Halloween Goodies to Hand Out
October 12, 2023
Don’t want to be part of the sugar rush for Halloween? Here’s some ideas for non-candy Halloween goodies to hand out.
2023 | Labor Day Weekend Fun in Southern California
August 29, 2023
Street fairs, tall ship sails, cultural festivals, special exhibits — there’s lots to do this Labor Day weekend!
2023 Southern California Water Park Survival Guide & Season Dates
August 25, 2023
Jump into summer this Memorial Day weekend! After not being able to operate during the entire 2020 season, local water parks are finally opening their gates and bringing on the waves!
Movie Theater Discount Days
August 24, 2023
Let’s face it, the cost of a movie theater trip nowadays can be scarier than a horror flick. But fear not, we rounded up movie theaters that offer epic discounts and deals!
72 Clever Questions to Get Kids Talking About Their School Day
August 17, 2023
Kids tend to be more descriptive about their day when asked specific, engaging questions. Here’s a list of unique questions to get the conversation started!
Back-to-School Tips & Tricks!
August 10, 2023
Learn how to get your kids talking about their school day, find ideas for after school activities, homework station inspiration, focus strategies for schoolwork, ways to make reading fun, and what you can say to help kids feel their best.
Cozy Coastal Nights: Top Beaches for Bonfires in LA & Orange County
August 9, 2023
It’s the ultimate combo of sunny days, starry nights, sandy beaches, and yummy s’mores! Welcome to our guide to the best beaches in LA and Orange County equipped with fire pits for a cozy coastal night.
8 Tips for Enjoying an Outdoor Movie with Kids
August 3, 2023
Outdoor movies are always a fun summertime tradition. Here’s a few tips to make sure you have a fun night out with the kids!
Unique Places to Have a Birthday Party for Every Kid
August 23, 2023
Did you know August and September are the most birthday-packed months? If you’re planning a birthday party, we’ve rounded up some of the most unique places to host a party… View Article
16 End-of-Summer Fairs & Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss!
August 2, 2023
Step right up and join in on the festive farewell to summer! August is a whirlwind of nostalgic fairs and cultural festivals. Celebrate history and heritage, explore different cultures, fly kites, or how about a fun-filled day surrounded by Frenchies? Don’t miss these events that’ll make the last days of summer unforgettable.
National Night Out Events Near Long Beach & Orange County
August 1, 2023
National Night Out is a designated evening when communities across the nation come together to encourage a safe neighborhood. It’s celebrated every year on the first Tuesday of August. Meet local police officers, firefighters, public safety team, and even their four-legged colleagues including K9s and horses.
Need a Pool Day? Get a Day Pass to these Hotels!
July 18, 2023
Need a pool day to cool down? Or maybe you don’t want to deal with massive water parks? These local Southern California hotels offer a day pass to use amenities including pools, spas, beach access, and even fitness facilities that are normally reserved for hotel guests!
Summer Survival Guide: Indoor Fun for Kids – The Best Places to Beat the Heat in Southern California
July 18, 2023
Looking for ways to beat the heat without skipping out on the fun? Kidsguide has you covered! We’ve hand-picked the most exciting museums, indoor playgrounds, and other cool hotspots to escape from the scorching temps!
Summer Exhibits for Kids You Don’t Want to Miss
July 11, 2023
These special exhibits are only here for the summer! Don’t miss out on fun and interactive experiences at our favorite Southern California children’s museums.
Summerween 2023 – Summer Halloween Events in Southern California
July 6, 2023
With the 4th of July behind us, it seems like the spooky season is starting to creep in a little early! Check out these fun and spooky Halloween-themed events happening this summer in Southern California.
2023 4th of July Events in LA & Orange County
June 27, 2023
4th of July events in Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Cerritos, Cypress, Dana Point, Huntington Beach, Irvine, La Habra, La Mirada, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Lakewood, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Los Angeles, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Orange, Pasadena, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Tustin, Yorba Linda, and more!
Museum Discount Programs Every Parent Should Know About!
June 22, 2023
Explore world-class museums from Long Beach to Los Angeles to San Diego without breaking the bank! We’ve rounded up free and discounted admission programs that make museum adventures easier for families.
Kidsguide Giveaway – Jurassic World Live Tour
June 21, 2023
Win tickets to see Jurassic World Live Tour at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA!
Your Cheat Sheet to Free Days and Always Free SoCal Attractions
June 15, 2023
Family fun doesn’t have to break the bank! Check out this list of local Southern California museums, gardens, and attractions that offer free admission days. Plus, keep scrolling for a list of places that are always free.
Last-Minute Ideas for Father’s Day 2023 – Near LA & Orange County
June 14, 2023
Get ready to make this Father’s Day one for the books! We’ve rounded up a list of exciting and unforgettable activities to celebrate Dad in style. Take Dad on an… View Article
2023 Outdoor Summer Movies in LA & Orange County
June 26, 2023
Enjoy summer movies in Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Bellflower, Brea, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Irvine, La Habra, La Palma, Lake Forest, Lakewood, Laguna Niguel, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, OC Parks, Placentia, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rossmoor, San Clemente, Santa Ana, Stanton, Tustin, Westminster, Whittier, Yorba Linda, and more!
2023 Greater Long Beach & OC Summer Concert Guide
June 8, 2023
It’s music to our ears! Get ready to rock n’ roll your way through the ultimate lineup of outdoor summer concerts near LA and Orange County. We’ve rounded up the coolest cover bands and the best toe-tapping tunes for a fun summer night!
Kidsguide Summer Issue 2023
May 30, 2023
Kidsguide is doing what we do best: giving you information on hundreds of activities to make this summer memorable plus, combining it with the weird, wacky, and gross stuff we know your kids will love!
Things To Do in Southern California Memorial Day Weekend 2023
May 16, 2023
Celebrate Memorial Day with your family while honoring our heroes. Explore Kidsguide’s list of family-friendly events and places that pay tribute to the brave. 2023 Memorial Day… View Article
Fun Things To Do for Mother’s Day 2023 – Near LA & Orange County
May 4, 2023
It’s time to celebrate mom! If you’re in Southern California, there’s so many fun activities and outings to make the day special. From strolling through beautiful gardens to cruising in a classic car, Kidsguide’s got you covered!
The Mom & Me Know-It-All Game: How Well Do You Know Mom?
May 4, 2023
Step aside newlyweds, this game is all about moms! Celebrate Mother’s Day this year with a fun game the whole family can play. If you’re familiar with The Newlywed Game, then you’re ready to go.
Simple Ways Kids Can Help Make the Earth Happy
April 18, 2023
Make every day Earth Day! Here’s 16 simple ways kids can help make the Earth happy.
Easter Events in Long Beach, LA & Orange County
April 7, 2023
Good old-fashioned egg hunts, nighttime egg hunts, bunny bonanzas, and exciting eggstravaganzas! Here’s 60+ Easter events scattered across SoCal that are sweeter than a peep!
14 Easter Traditions Your Family Will Want To Do Year After Year
March 28, 2023
Easter’s around the corner and we rounded up some unique Easter traditions that your family will want to do year after year! Get out there and spread a little Easter cheer!
12 Tips for Choosing the Right Summer Camp
March 9, 2023
Summer camps are one of the best ways to keep kids engaged and learning outside of school. Here’s our best tips for finding the right camp for your family!
California Family Camps – Where the Whole Family Gets the Summer Camp Experience
March 9, 2023
Family camps are typically all-inclusive, multi-day camp experiences with activities for grown ups and children of all ages. Pricing includes lodging, meals, and a full schedule of activities. It can’t get any easier!
Things To Do With Kids During a Long Weekend
May 25, 2023
If you’re looking for somewhere to go for the long weekend, Kidsguide’s got you covered! Here’s a list of ideas to get you started. Long weekend, here we come!
Old-Fashioned Sweet Shops to Visit in Southern California
February 15, 2023
Feeling a bit nostalgic? Have a taste of yesteryear with a sweet treat from one of these old-fashioned confectionary shoppes in Southern California.
Super Bowl Activities for Kids
February 9, 2023
Keep the kids entertained during your Super Bowl watch party with these fun games and activities! Plus, check out the official team websites for even more fun activities for kids.
Simple Ways to Speak Your Child’s Love Language
February 7, 2023
What’s your child’s love language—words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, gifts, or physical touch? We’ve got the sweetest list of simple ideas to show your love in a way your child understands.
These Southern California Museums Will Be Free on February 5th
January 25, 2023
SoCal Museums announces the Museums Free-for-All Day on Sunday, February 5, 2023, in-person for the first time since 2020. Over thirty museums— presenting art, cultural heritage, film, natural history, and… View Article
6 Genius Strategies to Help Kids Focus on Homework
January 26, 2023
Is your child having a hard time focusing on schoolwork at home? Try one of these strategies! Hint: It includes video games (kinda).
The School Tour: Things to Look For & Questions to Ask
January 26, 2023
Planning to go on a school tour? Here’s tips on what to do before you go, things to look for, and questions to ask.
Unique SoCal Holiday Experiences Your Family Will Love
December 20, 2022
Unique holiday fun in Southern California! See Mr. Rex in his Santa suit, a special holiday rendition of Wizard of Oz, movie screenings with tours of Victorian homes, and lots more!
What’s Open on Christmas Day for Kids in Southern California?
December 15, 2022
What fun things do you have planned on Christmas Day? If you’re looking for a fun family outing, we’ve got you covered! Go skate around an ice rink, watch a new movie in theaters, or how about bowling?! Here’s a list of places that are open ON Christmas Day!
Best Mountains for Snow Play Near LA & OC
December 14, 2022
If you’re looking to for a snowy winter in sunny SoCal, look no further. We’ve rounded up the best mountains for snow play near Los Angeles & Orange County.
11 Cool Places To Go Ice Skating in LA & OC
October 17, 2023
Find out the best ice skating rinks near LA and Orange County!
Holiday Shows & Performances 2022
October 18, 2023
Nothing beats being part of a live audience in a live show! This holiday season, enjoy classics like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker or try something different like Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas or The Wonderful Winter of Oz!
Experience Gift Ideas for Kids
November 17, 2022
Looking to gift a fun experience this year? Here’s a list of 40+ ideas! From cooking classes and art lessons to specialty tours and memberships to your favorite family places — it’s gonna be a fun holiday season!
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 2022-23
November 3, 2022
We’ve dug deep into learning about your favorite kid-friendly attractions, scoured the corners of the web, and chatted with parents who’ve been there, done that – to bring you an issue full of insider tips!
Non-Halloween Events Happening in October
October 11, 2022
Looking for non-Halloween family fun? No worries, Kidsguide has you covered! There’s lots of events happening this month including new exhibits, live shows based off your favorite children’s books, fairs, festivals, and even free aircraft flights for kids!
The Last Few Outdoor Movies & Concerts Before Summer Ends
August 18, 2022
End of Summer Movies Anaheim Pearson Park Amphitheatre Symphony & Cinema, seating starts at 6pm Thursday, September 1: A Star is Born (1954) Fountain Valley Fountain Valley Sports… View Article
Top Mini Golf Courses in LA & Orange County
August 16, 2022
The best mini golf courses in LA and Orange County. Looking for a little competitive family fun? Try mini golf! Great for kids of all ages (yes, even teens), and it’s a great way for entertain everybody for the day.
Pirates Dinner Adventure Giveaway!
August 3, 2022
Win a family 4-pack of tickets to one of the most entertaining, swashbuckling dinner shows around!
Editor’s Picks: Top Events for Families This Month – August 2022
August 2, 2022
Enjoy concerts in the garden, celebrate cultural festivals, launch a rocket, go on a family night hike, chow down on some BBQ, and lots more!
Don’t Miss Out: These Summer Events End Soon
July 28, 2022
Check out all the fun things to do before summer ends! There’s only a few weeks left for these limited-time exhibits and events.
Space Destinations in Southern California
July 19, 2022
Does your family love learning about our universe? Visit these awesome space centers, planetariums, and observatories for an out-of-this-world learning experience.
Pirate Fun in Southern California
July 14, 2022
Ahoy, Kidsguiders! You’ve found it, an entire treasure trove of pirate adventures in Southern California. Everything from spectacular events to piratey places that aarrgh sure to be a great time!
8 Things to Do at the OC Fair
July 12, 2022
There’s lots of fun things planned for every day with activities ranging from getting up close and personal with animals to checking out exhibits, shopping, and enjoying live performances.
Where Kids Eat Free in Long Beach & Orange County
July 1, 2022
With everything going up in price this summer, going out to dinner with the whole family might just blow that budget right out the water! We rounded up a list of local Southern California restaurants offering free meals and deals for kids!
4th of July Scavenger Hunt
June 22, 2022
Take a stroll around the neighborhood and see how many patriotic things your kids can find! Going out of town? Take this scavenger hunt on the road to keep kids busy during the car ride.
Win Tickets to Santa Ana Zoo
June 22, 2022
To celebrate the first day of summer, Kidsguide is giving away a family 4-pack of tickets to Santa Ana Zoo!
For Lauren Davis
June 22, 2022
This is a tough one, bear with me. Working closely with families and children over the years, I’ve come to learn a few things. I’ve met some amazing moms and… View Article
The Coolest New Exhibits at SoCal Children’s Museums
June 22, 2022
Check out the coolest new exhibits coming to your favorite SoCal children’s museums. Dig for dinosaur fossils, explore emotions, get immersed in our Solar System, and become a Rainforest Ranger!
Don’t Miss the California Poppy Festival!
June 22, 2022
The California Poppy Festival is the City of Lancaster’s annual celebration of California’s state flower. This 3-day event honors the beauty of the poppy with live entertainment, amusement park rides, displays, festival food, live animal exhibits, and countless activities for all ages.
10 Things You Need to Know About the New Wildlife Explorers Basecamp at San Diego Zoo
June 22, 2022
The new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is divided into four innovative nature play areas, each designed around unique habitats. Kids (and grown-ups!) get to feel what it’s like to be wild!
Upcoming Live Shows Your Family Will Love!
June 22, 2022
Check out these fun performances coming up around LA & Orange County for families and kids. From basketball trick shots and princesses to high-flying bugs and circus science — there’s something out there for every family!
Free Admission Days to Southern California’s Best Gardens
June 22, 2022
Free admission days at Descanso Gardens, The Huntington, South Coast Botanic Garden, and more. Plus, a list of gardens and nature centers that are always free!
Family-Friendly February Events We’re Excited About!
June 22, 2022
February is jam-packed full of fun! Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day — there’s lots of events for kids happening!
All About Sesame Place, SoCal’s Newest Theme Park
June 22, 2022
Here’s everything you need to know about Sesame Place San Diego including the rides, water attractions, ticket pricing, and other fun things to do. It’s opening in March 26th and we can’t wait!
Super Bowl Experience, NFL’s Interactive Football Theme Park Comes to LA
June 22, 2022
Calling football fans of all ages! Experience the glory of the NFL through interactive games, autograph sessions, and awesome attractions.
Where to Grow Your Village: Find Parent Support Groups & Local Mom Clubs in Southern California
January 19, 2022
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but it does come with a community. If you’re looking to grow your village, we’ve rounded up a list of mom clubs, new parent classes and workshops, LGBTQ+ groups, illness and bereavement support, and more.
National Parks Offer Free Admission for 5 Days in 2022
January 18, 2022
On five days in 2022, all National Park Service sites (that normally charge an entrance fee) will offer free admission to everyone. Plus, here’s a list of participating California national parks.
Clever Tricks to Teach Kids Handwashing & Hygiene
January 4, 2022
Teaching healthy habits and proper hygiene is always super important – so let’s make it fun! Teach the kiddos how to cough like a vampire, blow things away, and avoid the T-Zone!
Awesome Family-Friendly Tours to Book Right Now!
February 15, 2023
Take the family on a unique outing by learning what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favorite places in Southern California!
Where to Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree in Southern California
December 6, 2021
These Christmas tree farms have been working hard all year long to grow the best trees. Gather the family for the timeless tradition of cutting down your own Christmas tree and enjoy a fun, outdoor, Christmas outing.
Must-See Family Holiday Performances
June 22, 2022
There’s something about being in the audience of a live performance that makes the holiday season extra special. Here’s a round up of holiday shows, musicals, and plays showing all around Southern California. We’re also including all-time favorites, A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker.
Christmas Boat Parades in LA & Orange County
June 22, 2022
Southern California loves to celebrate the holidays with one the best ways we know how — on the water! See hundreds of festively decorated boats and ships and they light up the harbors of LA & Orange County.
15 Questions to Encourage Gratitude in Kids
November 9, 2021
Sometimes, kids (and grown ups) forget all the amazing things and people we have in our lives. Here’s a list of conversation starters to get little minds thinking about all they have to be thankful for.
23 Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Start This Year!
November 10, 2021
Turkey and feasting are go-to Thanksgiving traditions, but why not try something new or even non-traditional this year? Go on a Turkey Egg Hunt, play a family game, or watch old family videos. Here’s some ideas to get you started!
5 Ways to Prepare Kids for Daylight Saving Time
June 22, 2022
Fall back, spring forward, get an hour, lose an hour — no matter what time of the year it is, a Daylight Saving Time Sunday is bound to feel “off.” Here’s some tips to help ease the transition and avoid sleep-deprived meltdowns (from kids or parents), long school days, and routine changes.
Win Tickets to Day Out With Thomas
June 22, 2022
Win a family 4-pack of tickets to Day Out With Thomas: Trains, Games, & Miles of Smiles.
Kidsguide Fall/Winter 2021
June 22, 2022
This issue contains the top goodies we’ve found that make parenting easier, kids (and parents) happier, life better. Plus, we’re backing it up with 161 fun outing ideas to have in your pocket, along with a list of people and organizations that can help when you need it.
Aquariums & Marine Centers Kids Can Visit for $5 or Less in Southern California
August 30, 2023
Looking for a practically free family outing? Check out these aquariums and marine centers where kids can visit for a donation of $5 or less!
Why Every Parent Should Visit a Teacher Supply Store
January 12, 2022
If you’ve never been in a teacher supply store… you’re in for a real shopping treat!
Things To Do With Kids This Labor Day Weekend 2021
June 22, 2022
What’s there to do this Labor Day weekend? Besides firing up the grill, you could join the circus, taste food from around the world, go sunflower picking, or watch a super cool plane take to the skies!
Free Admission to Southern California Museums on Smithsonian Museum Day
August 27, 2021
Free admission to participating museums across the nation on Smithsonian Museum Day. Find out which Southern California museums are free.
35 After School Activities
August 10, 2023
Looking for ways to keep your kids engaged after school? We’ve got you covered! And we’re not just talkin sports—here’s a whole list of ideas you can do at home or within your neighborhood.
8 High-Flying Places to Jet Off to for National Aviation Day!
June 22, 2022
To celebrate National Aviation Day, we’ve rounded up a list of Southern California aviation-themed places you could take off to with your kids!
Things to Do with Kids in LA & OC Before Summer Ends
June 22, 2022
Check out all the fun things to do before summer ends and school starts!
15 Reasons to Enroll Your Kid or Teen in a Theatre Class
June 22, 2022
Looking for a great after school activity? Start with theatre arts!
Top 10 Reasons for Kids to Join a Chorus
June 22, 2022
Does your child love to sing? Have them try singing in a choir or chorus! Stan DeWitt, Executive Director of the Long Beach Youth Chorus, talks to us about the positive impact choral singing has on kids and teens. He also answers your most frequently asked questions.
