Festivals & Fairs

SAMLARC Christmas Tree Lighting (Lago Santa Margarita)

Rancho Santa Margarita · Orange County

Members and guests gather at the lakeshore for seasonal refreshments, holiday sing-alongs and the tree lighting. Tip: dress warm, since it's an outdoor lakeside evening event.

Carols 'Round the Lake (Rancho Santa Margarita)

Rancho Santa Margarita · Orange County

A caroling evening on the Lago Santa Margarita lakeshore and Beach Club, sponsored by Shannon Miller Real Estate. Tip: it is a neighborhood-association event, so check samlarc.org for guest rules.

Ladera Ranch Winter Fest

Ladera Ranch · Orange County

Holiday performances, inflatables, games, crafts, a Kids Market, and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus on the Town Green; Santa lights the holiday display at 5pm. Tip: Mercantile Way is closed 6am–7pm, and pets, glass and drones are not allowed.

Ladera Ranch Menorah Lighting (Festival of Lights)

Ladera Ranch · Orange County

A community Hanukkah celebration at the Covenant Hills Clubhouse with music, dreidels, crafts, candle lighting and traditional snacks. Tip: it starts at 4pm, so arrive early for the craft tables.

Artisans Market at Aliso Viejo Ranch

Aliso Viejo · Orange County

A city-hosted artisan market at Aliso Viejo Ranch (100 Park Ave). The city listing gives only the date, time and place. Tip: pair it with the Ranch's animals and open space for kids.

All is Bright Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony

Aliso Viejo · Orange County

The city's holiday celebration and tree lighting. The city calendar lists the date and time but not the venue yet (coordinates point to City Hall as a placeholder). Tip: confirm the location on the city calendar closer to the date.

Ektaa Diwali Fest (Great Park)

Irvine · Orange County

A large Indian festival of lights at the Great Park with music, dance, food booths and a lamp-lighting ceremony. The Great Park's calendar lists it for Oct 24 at 1pm. Tip: this falls before the earlier catalog entry's vague Oct-Nov window, so confirm timing on the organizer's page.

Mission San Juan Capistrano 250th Anniversary: Free Birthday Cupcakes

San Juan Capistrano · Orange County

Nov 1, 2026 is the Mission's 250th anniversary, and the Mission is giving away free birthday cupcakes from noon to 2pm (supplies limited to the first 1,000 guests, in collaboration with Costco SJC). The Mission's Día de los Muertos altar is also on display in the historic Sala. The 3:30pm official celebration is invitation-only. Tip: arrive at noon, since cupcake supplies are limited.

Día de los Muertos Altar at Mission San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano · Orange County

Visitors can add a loved one's name to the community ofrenda in the Mission's 18th-century Sala. It is a quiet, family-friendly way to explain the tradition to kids. Tip: pair it with the Nov 1 250th-anniversary day, and check the Mission calendar since listed days skip Mondays.

Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights

San Juan Capistrano · Orange County

Mission San Juan Capistrano adds a tree lighting, Dickens-era carolers, a full-scale nativity, a lighted halo grove, a scented citrus garden and dancing swallows. Evening programming includes a digital projection at 6:05pm. Tip: your ticket includes daytime admission, so arrive in the afternoon to see the Mission first and stay for the lights.

Swallows Day Parade & Mercado Street Faire

San Juan Capistrano · Orange County

The 67th annual non-motorized parade marking the swallows' return, followed by a Mercado street faire in downtown San Juan Capistrano. Street closures begin at 10am, so arrive early.

Holiday Faire at the Great Park

Irvine · Orange County

Handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind finds from local vendors at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. Tip: pair it with the Great Park carousel and playgrounds so kids have something to do while you shop.

Illuminate Irvine Holiday Tree Lighting

Irvine · Orange County

The City of Irvine's signature holiday event at the Great Park features winter-themed activities, holiday shopping, live seasonal performances, and the lighting of the Holiday Tree and Palm Court Arts Complex. Tip: come around 3pm for activities and shorter lines, and stay for the lighting.

Holidayz at the Park Light Display (Great Park)

Irvine · Orange County

An outdoor light display in the Great Park Palm Court, with a Santa's sleigh photo spot, open daily from dusk until 9pm. Tip: it is free and easy to combine with a carousel ride, and holiday classes need registration at yourirvine.org.

OC Irvine Turkey Trot (14th Annual)

Irvine · Orange County

A flat 5K and 1-mile Turkey Dash at Irvine Valley College. Kids Gobble Wobble races start at 9:10am, with a Diaper Dash for ages 3 and under and a Tot Trot for 4–5. Every kid gets a bib, medal, shirt and a slice of pie. Tip: prices rise as race day nears, so sign up early.

Hospitality Night & Tree Lighting (Laguna Beach)

Laguna Beach · Orange County

Downtown closes for a holiday block party with school-band and community performances, crafts in the Peppertree Lot, an art market, cider and cookies, and Santa lighting the tree at 6:10pm. Santa then hears kids' wishes at his Beach House from 6:30–9pm. Tip: streets close at 3pm, so use the free trolley, which runs 4–11pm.

La Plaza Park Tree Lighting (Dana Point)

Dana Point · Orange County

A community holiday tree lighting at La Plaza Park in the Lantern District. It pairs well with a stroll past the nearby shops and a stop at the Saturday farmers market earlier that day. Tip: the park is small, so park in the Lantern District side streets and walk in.

Taste of Dana 2027

Dana Point · Orange County

An afternoon of local food and drink, live entertainment and waterfront views at Bump Out Park in Dana Point Harbor. It is a daytime, community-style event rather than a nightlife one. Tip: confirm the ticket policy for kids before you buy, and take the harbor trolley to skip parking.

Harbor After Dark Holiday Night Market (Dana Point Harbor)

Dana Point · Orange County

A holiday night market by Modern Makers Mart at the harbor parking structure with rotating food trucks, seasonal drinks and local makers. Tip: the harbor's holiday lights are on from Nov 12, so pair the market with a stroll to the lit displays near the Richard Henry Dana statue.

Dana Point Harbor Dogapalooza (2nd Annual)

Dana Point · Orange County

A dog-themed day at Bump Out Park with live music, kid-friendly crafts, pet vendors, food trucks, a fall photo op at the harbor VW bus, and a costume contest at 2:30pm. Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome. Tip: costume-contest sign-up at the Pet Project Foundation tent closes at 2pm.

Santa Paws with the Pet Project Foundation (Dana Point Harbor)

Dana Point · Orange County

Pet holiday apparel and photos with Santa and the harbor VW bus near the Richard Henry Dana statue and the 2026 holiday display. Proceeds benefit the Pet Project Foundation, and leashed, well-behaved pets are welcome. Tip: the listed address is 24601 Dana Dr across from Dana West Yacht Club.

Dana Point Harbor Holiday Market

Dana Point · Orange County

Over 55 vendors, live music and kids crafts on the harbor Island near the Richard Henry Dana statue, with Santa on site 11am–1pm for photos at the harbor VW bus. It is pet- and kid-friendly. Tip: it lands the weekend before Christmas, so go early for last-minute gifts and easy parking.

Santa's Village by the Sea & Puttin' on the Glitz

San Clemente · Orange County

Avenida Del Mar closes for carolers, street musicians, vendor booths and a silent disco, while the city's event at the community center has a sledding hill, holiday crafts and visits with Santa. Santa drives down Avenida Del Mar between 4 and 4:30pm. Tip: take the free SC Trolley special-event route from the Outlets (about every 15 minutes), since downtown streets are closed.

San Clemente Village Art Faire

San Clemente · Orange County

A juried monthly art and craft fair on the lawns around the San Clemente Library and Community Center. Tip: the organizer marks the Dec 12 date with an asterisk, so check the site before you go.

Monster Dash & Creepy Crawl Fun Run

San Clemente · Orange County

A city Halloween fun run from the San Clemente Community Center, with online registration. Tip: the same afternoon has Treat Street on Avenida Del Mar (3–5pm), so families can run in the morning and trick-or-treat downtown after.

Corona del Mar Christmas Walk

Corona del Mar · Orange County

The 47th annual holiday street celebration along Coast Highway in CdM Village — live bands on multiple stages, Santa photos, bounce houses and a petting zoo. Benefits Toys for Tots.

Hoag OC Marathon Weekend (5K and Kids Run the OC)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

The 2027 OC Marathon weekend runs May 1-2 through Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Santa Ana, with a Saturday 5K run or walk and Sunday half and full marathons. The HOAG Kids Run the OC is a school-based 10-12 week program with its 2027 event on Saturday, May 1. Tip: Families can do the Saturday-evening 5K walk together; the Kids Run is organized through schools, so ask your school about registering.

Balboa Island Parade

Balboa Island · Orange County

A small, homemade neighborhood parade down Marine Avenue with school bands, floats and horses, followed by a concert near the fire station. Island parking is very limited.

OC Japan Fair (19th Annual)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

One of Southern California's largest Japanese culture festivals at the OC Fair & Event Center, with a cosplay show, tuna-cutting show, traditional instrument performances, kimono meet-and-greets, calligraphy and traditional games. Hours are Fri 4-10pm, Sat noon-10pm, Sun 11am-7pm. Tip: buy tickets before Oct 16 to save about $2 each, and go Sunday for the smallest crowds.

Sugar Plum Arts & Crafts Festival (48th Year)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A holiday shopping festival with 185+ artisans, plus complimentary photos with Santa or Frosty the Snowman. Hours are Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm and Sun 11am-4pm. Tip: Sunday is the quietest day for photos with Santa, and the $15 parking fee is the main cost.

Noche de Altares

Santa Ana · Orange County

A volunteer-run Dia de los Muertos street event held since 2002 on Fourth Street, where families and community groups build memorial altars alongside music, dance and food vendors.

On 4th Street between Ross and Broadway; organizer does not list a time.

Lake Elsinore Día de los Muertos

Lake Elsinore · Inland Empire

A city-run Day of the Dead celebration on Downtown Main Street. Tip: go around 4-6pm for the family-friendly window before the evening crowd.

Lake Elsinore Tree Lighting Ceremony

Lake Elsinore · Inland Empire

The city's holiday tree lighting on Downtown Main Street, kicking off the December events. Tip: it starts at 6pm on a Thursday, so it works for a short after-dinner visit; Winterfest follows two days later.

Lake Elsinore Winterfest

Lake Elsinore · Inland Empire

The city's downtown winter festival on Main Street. Tip: it is a same-day option alongside other Dec 5 holiday events in the valley, so check timings before planning a double-header.

Field of Valor Veterans Tribute (Orange)

Orange · Orange County

More than 1,200 full-size American flags, each with a personal tribute to a service member, fill Handy Park for six days of remembrance. Extra ceremonies include a Marine Corps Birthday Celebration with the Orange Police Department (Tue, Nov 10, 11am) and a Veterans Day Celebration (Wed, Nov 11, 11am). Tip: it is a quiet, reflective space that works well for school-age kids learning about Veterans Day; go on a weekday morning for the fewest crowds.

Orange Christmas Market & Tree Lighting

Orange · Orange County

The Old Towne Orange Plaza fills with local vendors, seasonal treats, live entertainment and holiday activities, then the City of Orange Christmas tree is lit in the Circle. Organizer Orange Plaza Traditions notes admission is free and that hours and entertainment will be posted closer to the date. Tip: accessible parking is on S. Grand St just south of Chapman Ave; otherwise use the parking structure at Lemon and Chapman and plan for a walk.

Villa Park Diwali Celebration

Villa Park · Orange County

A midday community Diwali celebration at Villa Park City Hall on the Foundation's events calendar. Tip: the two-hour window is short, so arrive at noon.

Villa Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Villa Park · Orange County

The city's ceremony features ten lighted Christmas trees with special decorations, on the Villa Park Community Services Foundation events calendar. Tip: pair it with the Santa Tour by Fire Engine the same day, which makes stops around the city from morning to late afternoon.

Villa Park Chanukah Celebration

Villa Park · Orange County

The city marks Chanukah in front of Villa Park City Hall with a short evening gathering. Tip: it is a one-hour event on a weeknight, so plan an early dinner.

Villa Park Dry Land Boat Parade

Villa Park · Orange County

More than fifty decorated vessels lit with holiday lights travel an asphalt harbor through the city, with neighborhood boat-watch parties along the way. Tip: find a neighborhood along the route, bring folding chairs, and expect it to start right at 5pm.

Winter in the Grove

Garden Grove · Orange County

Garden Grove's holiday celebration at Village Green Park with school and dance performances, holiday crafts, inflatables, a craft boutique, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and 'Snowtopia' with nine snow slides made from 50 tons of snow. The city page does not state an admission price. Tip: snow-slide lines get long, so go right at 3pm.

Disney Festival of Holidays (Disney California Adventure)

Anaheim · Orange County

Disney California Adventure's multicultural holiday festival celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Navidad and Three Kings Day with live performances, décor and specialty dishes. It is part of the resort-wide Holidays season. Tip: the festival food marketplaces have small tasting portions, so a family can share several dishes for less than a full meal.

Placentia Centennial Birthday Celebration & Tree Lighting

Placentia · Orange County

The city closes out its 100th-anniversary year with a birthday party and tree lighting at Champions Sports Complex, bookending the year of centennial events. The city calendar lists a 4:30 to 10pm run. Tip: check the centennial page for entertainment and vendor details as they are posted, and bring layers for the evening.

Yorba Days

Yorba Linda · Orange County

A Yorba Linda Chamber community day pairing a 5K run with a classic car show and a vendor faire of local businesses and nonprofits. A half-day event, not a multi-day fair.

The official site lists a date without a confirmed year; check with the Yorba Linda Chamber before planning

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Holiday Time & Festival of Holidays)

Anaheim · Orange County

Disneyland Resort's holiday season runs across both parks, Downtown Disney and the hotels, with festive decor, a giant Christmas tree, holiday ride overlays and Santa visits from Nov 13 to Dec 24. Disney California Adventure hosts a multicultural Festival of Holidays. Tip: weekdays in early December are the lightest, and the resort's official page lists the full entertainment schedule.

Norco Breakfast with Santa, Christmas Festival & Horsetown Parade of Lights

Norco · Inland Empire

Horsetown USA's all-day holiday festival at Ingalls Event Center has food and craft vendors, entertainment, and (with the $10 wristband) train and pony rides, a petting zoo, games and crafts, capped by the 5pm Parade of Lights down Sixth Street. Breakfast with Santa ($5, four 60-minute slots from 7:30am) is online-only and can sell out. Tip: everyone who joins an activity, including parents, needs a wristband, so buy them online before the gate lines.

Anaheim Fall Festival & Halloween Parade

Anaheim · Orange County

A classic car show, fall festival, and a beloved nighttime Halloween parade through downtown Anaheim.

Single day, Saturday Oct 24, 2026, at Center Greens next to Anaheim City Hall. This replaces the earlier 'Oct 24–25' listing.

Westminster Tree Lighting Ceremony

Westminster · Orange County

The city's annual holiday tree lighting at the Civic Center, with performances, photos with Santa, activities and food vendors. The city page does not list a start time. Tip: check the city page the week of for the start time, and bring a blanket.

Murrieta Market Nights (1st & 3rd Thursdays)

Murrieta · Inland Empire

The city calendar lists Market Nights in Historic Downtown Murrieta on the first and third Thursday of each month, with local vendors, food trucks, artisans, live music and family-friendly activities. Tip: Go right at 5pm for parking and shorter food-truck lines; dates for January-March and September were not yet posted.

Murrieta Veterans Day Parade (24th annual)

Murrieta · Inland Empire

A community parade honoring veterans that starts at Washington Ave & Ivy St and ends at Town Square Park, where the Rotary Field of Honor is on display. Tip: it is a weekday morning, so most schools are closed; walk the route from Town Square end for easier viewing with kids.

Murrieta Rotary Field of Honor

Murrieta · Inland Empire

A community flag display at Town Square Park presented by the Rotary Clubs of Murrieta and Old Town Temecula, where visitors recognize their heroes. It runs through the Veterans Day Parade and wraps up the following Sunday. Tip: it is a quick, stroller-friendly stop that pairs well with the parade on Nov 11.

Murrieta Tree Lighting & Festival of Wreaths

Murrieta · Inland Empire

A community celebration with twinkling lights, music and local vendors at Town Square Park & Amphitheater. Tip: pair it with the morning Donuts with Santa at the same park for an easy full-day plan.

Westminster Tet Parade

Westminster · Orange County

Little Saigon's Lunar New Year parade down Bolsa Avenue, with lion dances, floats, marching bands, martial arts groups and veterans' organizations. One of the largest Vietnamese American events in the country.

City event pages were unreachable during research, so no date could be confirmed officially

Day of Music Fullerton

Fullerton · Orange County

A free all-ages music day across roughly 60 Fullerton venues, from Museum Plaza and the Fox Theatre to Hillcrest Park. The downtown hub has a Kidz Korner and spray pool, so it works for families despite the sprawl.

The official site was still showing the 11th annual event and had not posted an updated year

Noche de Muertos at Fullerton Museum Center

Fullerton · Orange County

Fullerton Museum Center's Day of the Dead evening in downtown Fullerton (301 N Pomona Ave). The listing gives only the date, time and address, so check the museum for the altar and activity lineup. Tip: the same night, Santa Ana holds its much larger Noche de Altares, so pick one.

Fullerton Museum Center Winter Market

Fullerton · Orange County

The museum's annual holiday market in downtown Fullerton (301 N Pomona Ave). The listing has no vendor or admission details, so confirm on the museum site. Tip: the museum's calendar also shows a Fullerton tree lighting near this weekend (not yet confirmed by the city), so it may pair well with an evening downtown.

Perris Veterans Celebration

Perris · Inland Empire

The city's annual Veterans Celebration on the city calendar for Saturday morning, Nov 7. Tip: confirm the venue on the city calendar entry, and expect a short ceremony that suits school-age kids.

Perris 36th Annual Christmas Parade

Perris · Inland Empire

Perris' long-running holiday parade runs through the historic downtown, drawing big crowds. Tip: it is a morning parade, so there is time to combine it with Norco's evening Parade of Lights the same day; check the city calendar for the route and street closures.

Menifee Menorah Lighting

Menifee · Inland Empire

A Chanukah menorah lighting at Central Park. Tip: it is a weeknight evening event, so bring jackets for kids.

Brea Tree Lighting Ceremony

Brea · Orange County

Brea's annual ceremony has live music and entertainment, the lighting of the holiday tree, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Free selfies with Santa are offered in the Curtis Theatre after the ceremony. Tip: seating is limited, so arrive early or bring a blanket, and head to the Curtis Theatre right after the lighting to beat the line.

Menifee Day of the Dead

Menifee · Inland Empire

Live performances, traditional music and dance, community altars and a Catrina contest, plus cuisine, artisan vendors and children's activities at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee campus. Tip: the children's activities are best in the early hours, before the evening performances draw big crowds.

Menifee Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar

Menifee · Inland Empire

The city's tree lighting and holiday bazaar at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee campus. Tip: shop the bazaar early and stay for the lighting after dark.

Fallbrook Harvest Faire

Fallbrook · San Diego

An autumn street fair on Main Avenue in downtown Fallbrook — vendors, live music, a beer and wine garden, pumpkin and pie-baking contests, a costume contest and a kids' corner. Runs alongside the town's month-long Scarecrow Days.

Fallbrook Christmas Parade

Fallbrook · San Diego

An evening lighted holiday parade down Main Avenue in downtown Fallbrook, rain or shine on the first Saturday in December, with high school marching bands and community floats. 2026 is the 45th annual.

Chino Hills Boat Parade

Chino Hills · Inland Empire

The annual holiday parade, run with the Kiwanis Club, has decorated boats plus bands and equestrian entries near City Hall on Peyton Drive. Tip: the city says to arrive early for parking along the route. It is a Friday evening, so bring jackets.

Temecula Greek Festival

Temecula · Inland Empire

Greek food, dancing, and music hosted by St. Nicholas at Promenade Temecula.

Temecula Christmas Tree Lighting

Temecula · Inland Empire

An evening of festive music, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa at the Temecula Duck Pond. It is a short, low-key event that works on a school night. Tip: bring a jacket, since Temecula evenings drop into the 40s by late November.

A Very Temecula Christmas (Old Town)

Temecula · Inland Empire

Old Town's holiday festival weekend, with seasonal entertainment and family activities. It includes a classic-car and cocoa evening with carolers on Friday, and a free Santa-and-carolers afternoon at the Civic Center on Saturday. Tip: Saturday 1-4pm at the Civic Center is the easiest Santa slot for small kids.

Temecula New Year's Eve Grape Drop

Temecula · Inland Empire

A family-friendly early New Year's Eve at the Civic Center Quad with live music, food, activities and a drone show featuring an animated grape drop at 9pm. Tip: the countdown is at 9pm, so little kids can celebrate and still be in bed at a reasonable hour.

Cypress Holiday Sing & Tree Lighting

Cypress · Orange County

An evening on the Civic Center Green (Orange Ave & Grindlay St) with school choirs, Santa and Mrs. Claus, train rides, games, crafts, and free hot chocolate and cookies. Seating is festival style. Tip: bring chairs or blankets and use the free Civic Center parking lot.

Temecula Rod Run (Friday Night Cruise and Show & Shine)

Temecula · Inland Empire

Historic Old Town Temecula hosts a Friday-night cruise along Front Street and a Saturday show with over 500 classics including Model A's, T-Buckets and Roadsters, plus vendors and food. The city says it draws tens of thousands of visitors. Tip: Come Friday evening for the cruise and skip Saturday midday crowds, or park early and walk in.

Santa's Electric Light Parade (Temecula)

Temecula · Inland Empire

A lighted holiday parade that starts at Jefferson Ave and Del Rio Rd and heads south into Old Town Temecula along Front Street. Tip: claim a curb spot in Old Town by 6pm and park farther out, because Front Street closes for the parade.

Riverside Dickens Festival

Riverside · Inland Empire

A Victorian-era street festival across downtown Riverside, now in its 33rd year — costumed performers, a Friday school day and lantern walk, a pub night and two days of open festival.

Scheduled around Dickens' Feb 7 birthday; a 2027 edition is planned but dates are not yet published

La Habra Tamale Festival (13th Annual)

La Habra · Orange County

The city's holiday festival takes over Euclid St between La Habra Blvd and Bridenbecker Ave, plus City Hall, Portola Park and Brio Park. In 2025 it included the City Holiday Tree Lighting, and the city has not yet posted 2026 hours. Tip: the Children's Museum at La Habra closes for the festival that day, so plan a different outing for the kids.

Diamond Bar Windmill Lighting Ceremony

Diamond Bar · Los Angeles

Thousands of lights switch on around the historic 30-foot Diamond Bar windmill for the season, with free hot drinks and carolers from 5pm and the lighting around 5:45pm. The sheriff's team also collects new toys and gift cards for kids from newborn to 14 for its Pack-A-Patrol Car drive. Tip: it is short and after dark, so bring a new toy to donate and wrap the kids up.

Mission Inn Festival of Lights

Riverside · Inland Empire

Downtown Riverside's holiday lighting of the Mission Inn, in its 34th year — a switch-on ceremony with fireworks, then nightly displays through New Year's Eve with vendors, entertainment and a temporary ice rink.

Ice rink and vendors run nightly 5-10pm Nov 22-Dec 31; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Doors Open Riverside (8th annual)

Riverside · Inland Empire

Free access to more than a dozen historic downtown sites usually closed to the public, including churches, museums and the main library, with docent-led tours in English. Tip: the Mission Inn Foundation & Museum information center hands out a giveaway; pick a few sites within walking distance rather than trying to see everything. Coordinates point to the Main Library; sites are spread across downtown.

Winter Wonderland (Los Alamitos)

Los Alamitos · Orange County

Reagan Street and Pine Street turn into a holiday village with a tree lighting, Santa's Village, snow sledding, snow play and musical entertainment, per the city's Fall 2026 brochure. Tip: bring gloves for the snow play and check the city page for the performance schedule, which the city says will be posted soon.

Riverside Veterans Parade & Expo

Riverside · Inland Empire

A veterans parade and expo along Market Street, 10th Street and Main Street in downtown Riverside. Tip: park in the downtown garages and walk in, since streets close for the parade.

Moreno Valley Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Moreno Valley · Inland Empire

The city lights its 30-foot tree at Civic Center with entertainment, photos with Santa and hot cocoa and cookies. It follows the all-day Holiday Snow Day on the same Saturday, so many families do both. Tip: Snow Day has movies on the amphitheater stage and free Fun Zone games, so stay on for the 5:45pm lighting rather than making two trips.

Moreno Valley Day of the Dead Celebration

Moreno Valley · Inland Empire

The city's Día de los Muertos evening at the Civic Center Amphitheater has community altars, a Catrina/Catrin contest, Danza Azteca Xochipilli, Ballet Folklórico, a live band, craft and info booths and a Kids Market. Tip: it runs after dark, so bring a light jacket for little ones and arrive early to see the altars before the stage shows start.

Seal Beach Christmas Parade (48th Annual)

Seal Beach · Orange County

The Seal Beach Lions Foundation's parade travels along Main Street from the pier to PCH with this year's theme A Red, White, and Blue Christmas celebrating 250 years of Freedom. Tip: expect a large crowd, so claim a curb spot on Main Street early and bring blankets.

La Mirada Chili Holiday

La Mirada · Los Angeles

A holiday evening at Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center with live entertainment, crafts, coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and chili, a holiday train ride through a winter wonderland, and photos with Santa. Tip: guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food or a new unwrapped toy to donate.

Fontana Día de los Muertos

Fontana · Inland Empire

The city holds two Day of the Dead events on the same Sunday: noon-3pm at Southridge Park and 3-6pm at the Jack Bulik Center. Tip: choose one site, and note that Southridge is the earlier, daytime one that suits young kids best.

Hawaiian Gardens Christmas Tree Lighting

Hawaiian Gardens · Los Angeles

The city's 2026 special events list has the Christmas Tree Lighting on 12/4 at the C. Robert Lee Activity Center (21815 Pioneer Blvd). Time and activities are not published. Tip: it is a Friday evening, so confirm the start time with the city.

Ontario Holiday Light Parade

Ontario · Inland Empire

The city's light parade runs down Euclid Avenue from Fourth Street to B Street. Afterward, Ontario Town Square has carolers, crafts and photos with Santa. Tip: grab a spot on the Euclid median early and go to Town Square right after for the shortest Santa line.

Belmont Shore Christmas Parade

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The 42nd annual evening holiday parade along East Second Street with floats, bands and school groups. Held the same night as the Naples boat parade.

Confirmed. FIX the description: the Naples Boat Parade is Sat Dec 12, 2026, not the same night. Both the Belmont Shore business association and the City of Long Beach calendar show Dec 5 for the parade.

Downtown Pomona Second Saturday ArtWalk

Pomona · Los Angeles

A monthly evening in the Pomona Arts Colony with gallery receptions, shops and restaurants open late, and a night market at Shaun Diamond Plaza with live music, artisan crafts and food vendors; the organizer invites families. Tip: the December walk lands on the same night as the downtown Holiday Parade, so expect crowds and arrive early.

Pechanga Pow Wow

Temecula · Inland Empire

A three-day cultural gathering with dancers from tribes across the U.S. and Canada, competitions, Native food, artisan crafts and fireworks. Admission and parking are free, and capacity is enforced. Tip: strollers, coolers, chairs and wagons are not allowed inside, though stroller parking is provided, so go Saturday or Sunday daytime with little ones.

Downtown Pomona Holiday Parade

Pomona · Los Angeles

A free evening parade themed Neon Candyland that starts near Centennial Park at Gibbs & Second St, runs down Second St and Park Ave and ends near Mission Blvd & Garey Ave. Afterward Holiday at the Plaza runs at Shaun Diamond Plaza until 9pm with food and entertainment. Tip: watch near the plaza end so you can walk straight into the after-party.

Artesia Winter Wonderland & Holiday Tree Lighting

Artesia · Los Angeles

The community tree is lit at 6pm at Artesia Park (18750 Clarkdale Ave), followed by festive performances, holiday cheer and 20 tons of snow with slides and a play area. Tip: bring gloves and dry socks because the snow area gets wet.

Artesia Diwali Festival of Lights

Artesia · Los Angeles

A street festival co-sponsored by the City of Artesia and Pioneer Boulevard businesses in the Little India district, with Pioneer Blvd closed for a main stage, vendor booths and food.

The city's event page lists a date without a year and has not been updated for 2026

Oceanside Dia de los Muertos Festival

Oceanside · San Diego

A community Day of the Dead festival in downtown Oceanside beside City Hall, with community altars, folklorico dance and food and craft vendors. 2026 marks the 25th annual.

Norwalk Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting

Norwalk · Los Angeles

Snow play, slides, game booths, crafts and face painting at Norwalk Park, ending with the tree lighting. Tip: free shuttles run every 20 minutes from the City Hall parking structure starting 4:30pm.

Upland Hometown Holiday Parade

Upland · Inland Empire

The 49th annual holiday parade through Historic Downtown Upland starts at 10am, with festivities from 9am to 2pm. Tip: it shares a date with Chino's youth Christmas parade and Fontana's, so pick one; Upland's downtown is walkable, so park a few blocks out.

Claremont Holiday Promenade & Tree Lighting

Claremont · Los Angeles

A free evening in Claremont Village and the Depot (200 W 1st St) with carolers, a concert, snowman photo spots and the city tree lighting, put on with the Claremont Village Marketing Group. Park in the Village lots early, then ride Metrolink or walk in from the residential side streets.

Village Venture Arts & Crafts Festival

Claremont · Los Angeles

The Claremont Chamber's street festival fills the Village with over 400 art, craft and food booths, plus a children's costume parade and entertainment stages. 44 years running and the city's largest single-day event.

Lakewood Tree Lighting Festivities

Lakewood · Los Angeles

Free tree lighting at Lakewood City Hall with Santa, carnival games, food trucks and carolers. Tip: the lighting is at 6:30pm, so arrive around 5pm for games before it gets crowded.

Uptown Whittier Christmas Parade

Whittier · Los Angeles

A morning holiday parade down Greenleaf Avenue through Uptown Whittier, organized by the Whittier Uptown Association.

Southeast Asia Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The 22nd annual festival brings music, dance and craft demos from Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam, with short live presentations all day. Reservations are required. Tip: check the daily schedule at the entrance and catch the 15-20 minute dance shows early, before the crowds.

Autumn Festival at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The 25th annual festival celebrates the cultures of China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines with craft demonstrations, music, dance and storytelling. Reservations are required. Tip: the presentations are short, so let kids do the craft stations between shows.

Filipino American History Month Celebration (Long Beach)

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The 5th annual community celebration at the Civic Center lobby and plaza, listed by the City of Long Beach as an all-ages event. Programming details were not posted on the city calendar. Tip: park in the Civic Center garage and combine it with a visit to nearby Lincoln Park.

Carlsbad Village Street Faire

Carlsbad · San Diego

A twice-yearly street faire across downtown Carlsbad Village with roughly 750-900 vendor booths, an international food area, kids' rides and a beer garden. Run by the Carlsbad Chamber since 1975.

Carlsbad Village Rotary Holiday Tree Lighting (41st)

Carlsbad · San Diego

The Rotary Club of Carlsbad's 41st annual tree lighting at the Carlsbad Village Faire entrance (300 Carlsbad Village Dr): Santa arrives on an antique fire truck, free photos with Santa, carols, dance groups, library crafts and storytelling, and free cookies and cider. Mayor Keith Blackburn lights the tree at 4:30pm. Tip: the schedule is marked tentative, so arrive by about 2:15pm to meet Santa without a line.

Carlsbad 5000 & Junior Carlsbad Kids Races

Carlsbad · San Diego

The 'World's Fastest 5K' on Coast Highway 101 includes a non-competitive People's Race and, in the 2026 schedule, Junior Carlsbad kids' 1-mile and half-mile races for ages 4-12 with medals and a companion bib for a parent. Elite races follow, so families can watch record attempts after the kids finish. Tip: 2027 race-day times are not posted yet, so confirm the Junior Carlsbad start times.

Carlsbad Village Street Faire (May)

Carlsbad · San Diego

The event page lists May 2, 2027, 8am-5pm, for a faire that draws over 100,000 visitors to downtown Carlsbad, with about 900 vendor booths, a global food court, kids' rides, live entertainment and a beer garden. Free shuttle service and bike valet parking are available. Tip: use the free shuttle instead of hunting for parking near the Village.

Fontana Tree Lighting Ceremony

Fontana · Inland Empire

The City Council lights the tree at Miller Park Amphitheater with live entertainment, light refreshments, activities and a visit from Santa, who takes letters to the North Pole. Tip: it is a weeknight event, so bring your child's Santa letter already written.

Spring St. Night Market (Fontana)

Fontana · Inland Empire

A free evening market on Spring Street between Juniper and Sierra Avenues in downtown Fontana. Tip: the city lists only the October date, so check for repeat nights.

Fontana Christmas Parade & Festival of Winter

Fontana · Inland Empire

This year's theme is Toys in Action. The 2.2-mile route starts at Arrow Blvd and Sierra Ave and ends at Miller Park. Afterward the Festival of Winter has carnival rides, snow play, live entertainment and Santa photos. Tip: the finish is at Miller Park, so park near there and walk back toward Sierra Ave to watch.

Santa Fe Springs Tree Lighting Ceremony

Santa Fe Springs · Los Angeles

The city's Special Events table lists the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Center Plaza on November 21. Time and activities are not published yet. Tip: check the city page closer to the date for the start time before you go.

San Dimas Holiday Extravaganza

San Dimas · Los Angeles

The 16th annual downtown festival has four themed zones (North Pole, Elf Village, Winter Wonderland, Grinch-Ville), a 4pm Let It Snow parade and a 6pm tree lighting. Free crafts, snow slides and Santa selfies; a $15 wristband covers the premium rides. Bring cash, because the North Pole and Winter Wonderland ticket booths are cash only, with no bills over $20.

Vista Christmas Parade

Vista · San Diego

A holiday parade through downtown Vista from the Vista Chamber and the city, running since the late 1950s — themed floats, a letter-writing station and photos with Santa afterward.

68th annual, theme 'Candyland Dreams', Downtown Vista

Vista Strawberry Festival

Vista · San Diego

A one-day street festival from the Vista Chamber that closes historic downtown Vista for vendor booths, carnival rides, music stages, 5K/10K runs and strawberry contests. The 2026 edition was the 15th.

Chicana Art Festival

Vista · San Diego

Elevated760's free festival honors Chicana, Latina and Indigenous women artists with live mural painting, a lowrider showcase, music, cultural exhibits and interactive art activities for families. It's held in the Vista Gazebo parking lot in downtown Vista; park in the downtown lots and walk in.

Vista Cowboy Christmas

Vista · San Diego

Vista's third annual western-themed holiday night in the downtown historical district, with live country music at some downtown venues afterward. Tip: it falls two weeks after the Vista Christmas Parade (Dec 5), so families can catch both.

Xantolo: A Día de los Muertos Celebration (Paramount)

Paramount · Los Angeles

A community Día de los Muertos celebration hosted by the Latina's Art Foundation at Progress Park (15500 Downey Ave). The city page has no program list yet. Tip: it falls on a Sunday afternoon, so go before dusk for the best light on the altars.

75th Annual Covina Christmas Parade

Covina · Los Angeles

The city's 75th annual evening Christmas parade, starting at Citrus Ave & Badillo St and heading west on Badillo, then south on Hollenbeck to Puente St. Street closures begin at 4:30pm. Tip: chairs and blankets can only go on the curb once the streets are fully closed, so pick a spot after the closure rather than before.

Covina Tree Lighting Event & Ceremony

Covina · Los Angeles

Downtown Covina's tree lighting at Heritage Plaza (400 N. Citrus Ave) with vendors from 5:30pm and the ceremony at 6pm, then free holiday activities from 6:30 to 8:30pm: photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, crafts, letters to Santa, children's train rides and horse-drawn carriages. Tip: carriage rides require registering online starting Oct 19, so sign up early.

Covina Holiday Character Stroll & Christmas Concert

Covina · Los Angeles

A character stroll through decorated downtown (4:45–5:15pm) where holiday characters may pose for photos, followed by a Covina Concert Band Christmas concert at Heritage Plaza from 5:30 to 7pm. Tip: the stroll starts at Badillo St & Citrus Ave, so line up there early for character photos.

Rialto Holiday Festival and Parade

Rialto · Inland Empire

A city-run evening holiday event combining a parade along Willow Avenue with a festival at the Civic Center — tree lighting, a posada, a vendor lane and live entertainment.

The most recent date confirmed on the city calendar is Dec 6, 2025; no 2026 date posted yet

Downey Día de los Muertos Art Festival

Downey · Los Angeles

An all-day festival at the Downey Theatre Plaza (8435 Firestone Blvd) with folklórico dances, live performances on three stages, an art gallery, local artists, a community altar and car altars. Kids can decorate sugar skulls, do crafts, chalk art and face painting. Tip: use the free parking at Downey High School across the street.

Downey Christmas Parade

Downey · Los Angeles

A long-running holiday parade down Downey Avenue to the Civic Center with floats, vintage cars, marching bands and dance groups. Past its 70th edition.

The chamber site is mid-rebuild and has not published the 2026 date

Baldwin Park Día de los Muertos Exhibition

Baldwin Park · Los Angeles

A six-week city exhibition of ofrendas, art by local and renowned artists, crafts and stories about the Día de los Muertos tradition. Gallery hours are Monday–Thursday 4–8pm and Saturday 10am–2pm. Tip: the city page does not list the street address, so confirm the venue before you drive over.

Baldwin Park Annual Holiday Parade

Baldwin Park · Los Angeles

The city's annual holiday parade with floats, bands, drill teams and youth groups; the entry deadline is Nov 2. Start time and route were not yet posted, so check the city before heading out. Tip: call (626) 813-5245 ext. 302 for route and time once they are announced.

Glendora Christmas Parade

Glendora · Los Angeles

A 1.25-mile morning parade through Glendora Village and along Foothill Boulevard, run by a volunteer committee with the city, Rotary, Kiwanis and the chamber.

San Bernardino Lunar New Year Festival

San Bernardino · Inland Empire

A city-run Lunar New Year celebration at Court Street Square with lion dances, acrobatics, live music, food and artisan vendors, a kids' zone with games and crafts, and calligraphy and tea ceremony workshops.

The city lists February 2027 for the next celebration but does not give a specific date

46th Annual San Pedro Spirit of the Holidays Parade

San Pedro · Los Angeles

The parade brings families, little leagues, scouts, students, high school bands and equestrian units through downtown San Pedro, and draws over 12,000 spectators. It runs from 13th Street and Pacific Avenue to 6th Street and Palos Verdes Street, rain or shine. Tip: arrive early for a curb spot along Pacific Avenue.

Candy Cane Lane on Main

San Jacinto · Inland Empire

San Jacinto's holiday street event closes down Main Street on a Thursday evening; the city lists it as a save-the-date on its Special Events page. Tip: it is a weeknight event, so plan on 5:30 for kids before dinner and check the city page for the vendor and activity lineup.

Redlands Christmas Parade

Redlands · Inland Empire

The evening Christmas parade rolls down State Street in downtown Redlands. Tip: arrive early for a curb spot and park a few blocks off State St, since the route closes to traffic.

Downtown Azusa Night Market

Azusa · Los Angeles

A monthly family-friendly street market in Downtown Azusa run with Angel City Market, with local businesses, food and entertainment. The city calendar lists the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 9pm; only Oct, Nov and Dec 2026 dates are posted so far. Tip: arrive around 5–6pm for shorter food lines and easier parking.

Carson Filipino American History Month Celebration

Carson · Los Angeles

A community celebration of Filipino heritage at the Carson Event Center, 801 E Carson St. Carson has one of LA County's largest Filipino communities. Tip: check the city flyer for the program and food vendors.

71st Annual Compton Christmas Parade

Compton · Los Angeles

The city's long-running parade, themed Home for the Holidays in Hub City, runs about two miles along Compton Blvd from Bullis Rd to Alameda St, with Greg Townsend as Grand Marshal. Tip: arrive early for a curbside spot along Compton Blvd, since the route is long and the city invites families to line the street.

Dia de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch

Carlsbad · San Diego

A free celebration at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park (6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln) with music, activities and a traditional ofrenda honoring the Carrillo family; the adobe house is decorated for the holiday. Tip: the ranch stays decorated through Nov 2, so you can visit during regular park hours if 10am-2pm doesn't work.

Duarte Día de los Muertos

Duarte · Los Angeles

The city's Día de los Muertos event is listed on the Duarte calendar for Saturday, Oct 24 at 6pm. Venue and program were not readable from the calendar view (the pin is at City Hall as a placeholder). Tip: confirm the location with the city before you go.

Duarte Holiday Tree Lighting

Duarte · Los Angeles

The city's holiday tree lighting is listed on the Duarte calendar for Tuesday, Dec 1 at 6:30pm. Venue was not readable from the calendar view (the pin is at City Hall as a placeholder). Tip: it is a weeknight, so confirm the location and plan a quick early dinner.

San Marcos Tree Lighting & Merry Market

San Marcos · San Diego

The city's holiday tree lighting and market at the San Marcos Community Center (3 Civic Center Dr) with local craft vendors and entertainment groups. Tip: it runs all afternoon into the evening, so come early for the market and stay for the tree lighting.

Lights on Temple City

Temple City · Los Angeles

The city's holiday kickoff on the first Friday of December at Temple City Park: arts and crafts, carolers, community booths and a photo with Santa from 5pm, then a 7pm holiday parade from Las Tunas Dr & Cloverly to the park as the trees along Las Tunas light up. Tip: catch the parade near the park end so kids can head straight to Santa afterward.

San Marcos Spring Fling Festival

San Marcos · San Diego

Kennedy Faires' 2027 schedule lists the San Marcos Spring Fling Festival on April 4, 2027, a street festival in the North City community near Cal State San Marcos. The 2026 edition ran 9am-5pm. Tip: 2027 hours are not posted yet and April 4 is Easter Sunday, so expect a shorter or busier day.

Monterey Park Lunar New Year Festival

Monterey Park · Los Angeles

Garvey Avenue closes for a two-day city-run street festival with lion and dragon dancers, food and vendor booths, and a carnival fun zone. Free shuttles run from off-site parking both days.

Beaumont Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony

Beaumont · Inland Empire

A parade down Beaumont Avenue starting at 10th Street, followed by an 11am ceremony on the Civic Center lawn with a ribbon-cutting for the renovated Memorial Plaza. Tip: viewing areas are at 8th and Beaumont Ave and by the Civic Center.

Monrovia Thankful & Grateful Holiday Gathering & Tree Lighting

Monrovia · Los Angeles

The city's tree-lighting evening starts Old Town's holiday season. Time and location were not posted, so check the city page. After it, Old Town has holiday carolers on Saturdays and carriage rides on Sundays.

City lists the date only; time and venue not yet posted (pin at Library Park)

Monrovia Holiday Parade

Monrovia · Los Angeles

An evening parade north on Myrtle Ave from Walnut to Palm Ave. Myrtle from Huntington to Foothill closes 5-10pm. Park east or west of Ivy and Primrose and walk in, since Old Town closures are extensive.

Torrance Turkey Trot 3-Mile Fun Run

Torrance · Los Angeles

The city's Thanksgiving-morning 3-mile fun run at the Torrance Crossroads center, with commemorative shirts, a prize drawing and a food-drive collection. It is a 3-mile walk or run, so it works for stroller families and older kids. Tip: register at torrance.rec.us (early rate ends Oct 15); walk-up sign-up on race day is 6:30-7:30am.

Encinitas Holiday Parade

Encinitas · San Diego

An evening holiday parade of floats and community groups down historic South Coast Highway 101 through downtown Encinitas.

San Gabriel Holiday Tree Lighting

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

The city's holiday tree lighting at Plaza Park (428 S. Mission Dr). Only the date, time and place are posted so far. Tip: it is a weeknight evening, so plan an early dinner nearby and bring a jacket.

Encinitas Holiday Street Fair

Encinitas · San Diego

The autumn counterpart to the spring fair, held each year on the Sunday before Thanksgiving across six blocks of South Coast Highway 101, two blocks from the beach. No tickets needed.

San Gabriel Día de los Muertos

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

The city's Día de los Muertos evening at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse (320 S. Mission Dr). The listing has no program details yet, so confirm the lineup before you go. Tip: pair it with a look at the historic Mission next door while the light is still good.

Yucaipa Winterfest

Yucaipa · Inland Empire

A city-run holiday street festival in Historic Uptown Yucaipa with a tree lighting, Santa arriving by fire engine, Santa's Workshop, a kids' zone, live entertainment, food vendors and a beer garden. Rain or shine; leashed dogs welcome.

Valley Center Western Days Parade

Valley Center · San Diego

A rural community parade down Valley Center Road running since 1950 — 2026 was its 76th year. Now run by the Valley Center Business Association, without the festival that used to accompany it.

Held May 23 in 2026; 2027 date not yet posted

Beaumont Día de los Muertos (3rd annual)

Beaumont · Inland Empire

A city celebration at the Chatigny Community Recreation Center with mariachi music, dancing, crafts, face painting, food vendors, a Catrina/Catrin costume contest and a community ofrenda. Tip: pet photos for the community altar can be contributed starting Oct 1.

Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival

Alhambra · Los Angeles

An all-day street festival on Main Street with cultural performances, an artist alley of handmade goods, live art and food vendors. Held since 1993.

Día de los Muertos at the LA Arboretum

Arcadia · Los Angeles

An evening garden celebration with a community altar, Latin-owned makers, food and music, plus hands-on children's crafts (face painting extra). Garden admission is included in the ticket. Go at 4pm for the golden-hour light and shorter craft lines.

Kimchi Fest (California Kimchi Day) at the LA Arboretum

Arcadia · Los Angeles

A day of Korean food culture with a hands-on kimchi-making (kimjang) workshop, cultural learning and a Korean marketplace. Workshop tickets are sold separately and were not yet on sale when checked, so book ahead if kids want to make a jar.

Holiday Concert with the LMU Choir (Catalina Museum)

Avalon · Los Angeles

A free holiday concert by the Loyola Marymount University Choir at the Catalina Museum for Art & History, with gallery access included. Tip: arrive early for seats, then walk the lit-up Crescent Ave waterfront after.

Bunka-Sai Japanese Cultural Festival

Torrance · Los Angeles

A two-day free Japanese cultural festival at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center run by the Sister City Association — taiko, dance, martial arts, calligraphy, tea ceremony and food. 2026 was the 51st year.

52nd annual, free. Held at Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd (2026's location; 2027 venue not stated on the organizer page).

Shop Catalina Holiday Kick Off & Community Tree Lighting

Avalon · Los Angeles

The 33rd annual holiday kickoff, with a week of island shop discounts. The Christmas tree lighting and Santa photos are held on the Wrigley Stage. Tip: it falls on the same night as Long Beach's Belmont Shore parade, so pick one, and book Catalina ferries and rooms early.

Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival

Sierra Madre · Los Angeles

A free downtown arts and crafts fair with roughly 175 vendors, food and children's activities, built around shuttle visits to a privately owned 1894 wisteria vine listed in Guinness World Records. The vine is only accessible by paid shuttle.

Chamber site still lists the Mar 28, 2026 date; 2027 not published

Shop Sierra Madre Winter Festival

Sierra Madre · Los Angeles

The Saturday after Thanksgiving in downtown Sierra Madre, with an artisan marketplace, community booths, live music, dining and a snow sledding hill for kids. Small-town Shop Small day. Park in the public lots downtown and come before noon for the sledding hill.

Día de los Muertos at Self Help Graphics

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A Boyle Heights Day of the Dead celebration held block-party style on Anderson Street. 2026 is the 53rd annual — the longest-running Día de los Muertos event in Los Angeles.

Cruisin' Grand Escondido

Escondido · San Diego

A weekly Friday-night classic car gathering on Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, running since 2001 and limited to American cars from 1973 and earlier. 5-9pm each Friday of the summer season.

26th season reported as 17 Fridays Jun 5-Sep 25, 2026; not confirmed on an official organizer page

Gather on Grand / Escondido Street Festival

Escondido · San Diego

A street festival on Grand Avenue between Escondido Blvd and Ivy St in downtown Escondido with live music on several stages, a beer and wine garden, vendors and the Art in the Garden area at Heritage Garden. Tip: the Escondido Chamber's own fall Grand Avenue Festival date is not confirmed on its site, so verify which festival you are attending.

Christmas in Valley Center

Valley Center · San Diego

The Valley Center Business Association's holiday weekend at Bates Nut Farm. Friday: marching band 5:45pm, Santa arrives by fire truck at 6pm and lights the tree, carols, free hayrides and the Grinch (5-8pm). Saturday: Santa arrives by Polar Express hayride at 11am with free hayrides, holiday stage performances and the Grinch. Tip: arrive by 5:30pm Friday to see Santa's entrance.

Rose Parade Bandfest

Pasadena · Los Angeles

The marching bands, dancers and auxiliary units chosen for the Rose Parade each perform a full field show at Robinson Stadium (Pasadena City College). It runs 10am-4pm and is much easier with kids than the parade curb. Free parking is in Structure 4 off Del Mar Ave.

Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase

Pasadena · Los Angeles

After the parade, the flower-covered floats are parked along about two miles of Sierra Madre Blvd and Washington Blvd (Pasadena High School area) so you can see them up close and talk to the builders. Jan 1 is 1:30-5pm, Jan 2 is 9am-5pm (7-9am is reserved for seniors and disabled visitors) and Jan 3 is 9am-4pm. The Jan 2 opening hours are the calmest time to go with kids.

Nisei Week Japanese Festival

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A long-running Japanese-American festival in Little Tokyo with a grand parade, taiko, ondo dancing, and cultural exhibits.

Festival dates published; individual event days (Grand Parade, Ondo) not yet posted.

Holidayfest on South Lake Avenue

Pasadena · Los Angeles

A free afternoon in the South Lake Avenue District with Santa's Village at Macy's, a holiday artisan market at The Commons, an ornament-making workshop at Pasarroyo and live music. Tip: the Winter Workshop and Santa photos are the kid draws, so do those first before the 3-6pm crowds.

Día de los Muertos at Olvera Street

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Nine days of ofrendas, Aztec dancers, a nightly candlelit procession and free pan de muerto in LA's oldest street. Tip: arrive before 6pm for parking at the Union Station lots and see the altars in daylight before the procession.

Olvera Street lists 'October 25 – November 2' (nine-night novenario ending Nov 2) without printing the year.

Las Posadas at Olvera Street

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Nine nights of the traditional candlelit reenactment of Mary and Joseph's journey, with singing, piñatas and sweets. Tip: arrive early on weekends and bring a stroller-friendly jacket because the plaza gets cold at night.

Olvera Street lists 'December 16-24, 6:00pm' without printing the year; the nine-night dates are traditional.

Golden Dragon Parade

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A Lunar New Year parade through Chinatown along Hill Street and Broadway. The 2026 edition was the 127th, one of the longest-running Lunar New Year parades in the country.

King Day Celebration at CAAM

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

The California African American Museum's Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration in Exposition Park. The date and free admission come from the Exposition Park official calendar; program and public hours are not yet posted. Tip: check CAAM's site closer to the date for the schedule, and pair it with the Science Center's free galleries next door.

Juneteenth at CAAM

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

The California African American Museum's Juneteenth celebration in Exposition Park. The date and free admission come from the Exposition Park official calendar; the program and public hours are not yet posted. Tip: check CAAM's site closer to the date, and take the Metro E Line to avoid Exposition Park parking.

Grand Illuminations at The Yard at Cal Plaza

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Downtown LA's holiday light show at Cal Plaza with 100+ LED light sequences, a 25-foot LED tree and synchronized light columns. The Dec 3 opening adds a noon Holiday Marketplace, live entertainment and a tree lighting. Tip: come on a weeknight to see the lights without crowds; Metro to Civic Center/Grand Park is closest.

Site says the display runs 'nightly through January 2027'; exact closing date and hours not published (endsISO is the end of January as an upper bound).

EXPO Center Winter Holiday Festival

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A community holiday festival at the EXPO Center in Exposition Park. Only the date and hours are posted on the official Exposition Park calendar, so check with the EXPO Center for activities and any costs. Tip: pair it with the free Exposition Park rose garden walk and the Science Center's free galleries the same morning.

ASICS Los Angeles Marathon (with LA 5K & Kids Run)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Marathon weekend from Stadium to the Stars, with a family-friendly LA 5K that includes a Kids Run. Spectating is free along the route. Tip: expect major road closures, so take Metro rather than driving.

L.A. County Holiday Celebration (67th)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A 90-minute holiday showcase of LA music, dance and cultural groups at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, recorded for PBS SoCal. For 2026 it moves from Dec 24 to Sunday Dec 20, with two identical live shows. Tip: showtimes were still TBD (late morning to early evening), so check the Music Center page before planning parking.

Fletcher Cove Holiday Tree Lighting

Solana Beach · San Diego

The City of Solana Beach lights its tree at the oceanfront Fletcher Cove Park with sweets, hot cocoa and cider. Santa arrives on a fire truck at about 5:20pm and kids can tell him their wish list. Tip: it is the same evening as the Del Mar tree lighting, so pick one, and dress warmly because the cove breeze cools quickly after sunset.

Pasadena Doo Dah Parade

Pasadena · Los Angeles

A delightfully absurd, family-friendly 'anti-Rose-Parade' of eccentric floats and costumed marchers through Old Pasadena.

LA 5K (Elysian Park to Dodger Stadium)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A family-friendly 5K open to all ages and abilities, including runners, walkers and strollers, run through Elysian Park with a finish at Dodger Stadium. Participants get a race shirt, finisher's medal and post-race refreshments, and it supports the McCourt Foundation's neurological disease research. Tip: the start time is not posted yet, so check the page before planning the morning.

Solana Beach Día de los Muertos Celebration

Solana Beach · San Diego

A free community celebration at historic La Colonia Park with more than 40 altars, Ballet Folklorico, a classic car show, mariachi, pinatas, a costume contest and free kids' crafts and scavenger hunt. This year's theme honors La Colonia de Eden Gardens veterans, and the altar blessing starts at 10:10am. Tip: parking is limited, so carpool or bike, and bring chairs or blankets.

Holiday Tree Lighting at La Colonia Park

Solana Beach · San Diego

The city and La Colonia Community Foundation light the tree at historic La Colonia Park (715 Valley Ave) with sweets and Mexican hot cocoa. Santa arrives with his elves at 5:20pm. Tip: the city page lists the date as Dec 13 (a Sunday) though one sentence says Saturday, so confirm with Parks & Rec at 858-720-4430 before you go.

Hermosa for the Holidays (Tree Lighting)

Hermosa Beach · Los Angeles

A three-day beachside holiday weekend on Pier Plaza with a Santa tree lighting, letters to Santa, photos with Santa, hourly storytime and pop-up vendors. Pet-friendly on a leash, except on rides and inflatables. Tip: Sunday is the big day, with the 5:45pm tree lighting and Santa's arrival, so plan the whole family around that.

Apple Butter Festival at Los Rios Rancho

Oak Glen · Inland Empire

Riley's at Los Rios Rancho stirs apple butter the old-time way over Thanksgiving weekend, with pioneer games, live music, wagon or carriage rides, children's crafts and an Oak Glen treasure hunt. It is a low-cost way to give visiting relatives a day out. Tip: go Friday or early Saturday, since the Oak Glen Road traffic and parking get tight by Sunday.

Rose Parade Decorating Places (Float Viewing)

Pasadena · Los Angeles

Walk through the Rosemont Pavilion while volunteers glue flowers, seeds and leaves onto the Rose Parade floats. Hours are 11am-4pm Mon, 9am-4pm Tue and 10am-5pm Wed, and last entry is an hour before closing. Free parking is first-come and the Metro A Line is close, so take the train to skip the lot.

Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting

Manhattan Beach · Los Angeles

A holiday evening in Downtown Manhattan Beach and along the pier with holiday music, shopping and dining as the season's lights switch on. The city lists the event from 6 to 9pm. Tip: it is on a Wednesday evening, so arrive early to find downtown parking or walk down from the residential streets.

Taste of Soul Family Festival

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A one-day street festival closing Crenshaw Boulevard for food vendors, multiple music stages, small businesses and community health resources. 2026 is the 21st annual.

Del Mar Holiday Tree Lighting & Winter Taste & Sip

Del Mar · San Diego

Del Mar's annual downtown tree lighting at 5pm at the Jim Watkins Amphitheater at L'Auberge Del Mar, with hot chocolate, Santa and the Grinch. The Del Mar Village Association's Winter Taste & Sip runs 1-4pm the same day (photos with Santa at Del Mar Plaza) but is mostly a tasting event. Tip: skip the afternoon tasting with kids and arrive around 4:30pm for the tree lighting.

Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony & Winterfest

Altadena · Los Angeles

The volunteer-run countdown lights nearly a mile of 1920s deodar cedars, with choirs, marching bands and 20,000+ lights. Winterfest fills the corner of Santa Rosa Ave and Mariposa St with artisan vendors, food trucks, kids' activities and Santa photos. Arrive by 4pm because street parking fills up fast. The catalog's christmasLights.ts entry for the Lane says Dec 6-Jan 7, so check that season date separately.

Candy Cane Lane Shuttle (El Segundo)

El Segundo · Los Angeles

The City of El Segundo lists a nightly shuttle from Dec 12 through Dec 23 for Candy Cane Lane, the heavily decorated single-block Christmas tradition. The calendar lists a 4:30pm start each night. Tip: the shuttle is meant to ease access to the block, so check the city calendar for pickup locations before you drive.

El Segundo Joy Around the World: Festival of Holidays & Tree Lighting

El Segundo · Los Angeles

El Segundo's tree lighting combined with a celebration of winter holidays from around the world, with cultural dance performances, live music, crafts, a Santa visit and a kids' train ride at City Hall Plaza and the 300 block of Main Street. Tip: it is on the first Thursday in December after work and school, so arrive right at 3pm to beat the after-school crowd.

Wrightwood Mountain Holiday Celebration

Wrightwood · Inland Empire

The Wrightwood Chamber's holiday weekend has a Parade of Lights through the village and the annual tree lighting. Tip: the chamber page gives no times, so call 760-249-4320 for the schedule and check Highway 2 conditions before you drive up. (Coordinates are the town centroid.)

Glendale Cruise Night

Glendale · Los Angeles

An evening classic-car show closing Brand Boulevard in downtown Glendale, with pre-1985 classics and modified imports, a main stage, vendor booths and kids' activities.

The 31st annual was Jul 18, 2026; no 2027 date listed

Glendale Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Glendale · Los Angeles

The City of Glendale special events calendar lists the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on 12/03/2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The city also lists a Cram-A-Classic Toy Drive on 12/02/2026, 5-8 PM. Tip: the pin is at Glendale City Hall (613 E. Broadway), the usual site. The city's event page could not be opened to confirm the venue, so verify before you go.

Thai New Year Songkran Festival

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A Thai New Year street festival closing Hollywood Boulevard through Thai Town, with Thai food vendors, temple blessings, music and Muay Thai demonstrations. Running since 2004.

Thai CDC describes it as an annual April event but lists no upcoming date

Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A large Day of the Dead gathering at Hollywood Forever Cemetery with community altars, Aztec dancers and live music. 2026 is the 27th annual; tickets sell in advance and it draws big crowds.

La Cañada Flintridge Fiesta Days

La Cañada Flintridge · Los Angeles

A Memorial Day weekend community celebration from the LCF Chamber and Community Association — a fun run, a Memorial Day service and a parade down Foothill Boulevard. The 2026 run was the 49th annual.

2027 dates not yet published

Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens

La Cañada Flintridge · Los Angeles

A one-mile illuminated garden trail (10th year) with interactive installations, a new laser show with a snowfall finale and giant koi honoring the Japanese Garden's 60th anniversary. Open 5:30-10pm nightly with timed entry, and tickets must be bought in advance. Early-run weeknights are the cheapest and least crowded. This replaces the stale Nov 16-Jan 4 dates in christmasLights.ts (id enchanted-forest-descanso).

Sacred Path x The Autry Pow Wow

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A full-day Native celebration in Griffith Park with traditional dancing, Northern and Southern drum groups, fry bread and Indian tacos, and Native arts vendors. Tip: Grand Entry at 1pm is the best time for kids to watch; stand quietly during prayers and do not photograph dancers up close without asking.

Hollywood Christmas Parade

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A televised holiday parade of floats, marching bands and celebrity cars looping Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards. Held since 1928 — one of the oldest parades in Los Angeles.

Montrose-Glendale Christmas Parade

Glendale · Los Angeles

The 48th annual evening parade, themed 'The Christmas Time Machine', runs from Honolulu and Rosemont east to Verdugo Road. Street closures start at 3pm. Tip: no pop-up tents, and chairs and blankets can't go out until parade day, so arrive early for a curb spot.

Montrose Arts & Crafts Festival

Glendale · Los Angeles

A two-day festival on Honolulu Avenue in the Montrose Shopping Park with roughly 250 artists, crafters, farmers and food vendors plus live entertainment. 2026 marked its 42nd year.

43rd annual; free admission and parking; more than 270 artists, crafters, food vendors and farmers on the 2200-2400 blocks of Honolulu Ave

Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall)

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

An outdoor juried art show across four garden blocks of Beverly Gardens Park, with roughly 250 artists showing painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics and jewelry. Held each May and October for about fifty years.

Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

Hosted by the City of Beverly Hills and the Rodeo Drive Committee across all three blocks of Rodeo Drive, with live entertainment, decorations, Santa's arrival and a fireworks finale. It is a weeknight and crowds are big. Tip: arrive well before 5pm, since street closures make it hard to reach the middle blocks later.

Downtown Burbank Winter Arts Festival

Burbank · Los Angeles

Over 170 handmade artisan booths line San Fernando Boulevard from Magnolia to Angeleno, with live entertainment and family activities. Open to all ages, and leashed pets are welcome. Tip: park in a downtown structure and go Saturday morning, before the crowds build.

Poway Spring Festival

Poway · San Diego

Kennedy Faires' 2027 schedule lists the Poway Chamber of Commerce Spring Festival on May 16, 2027. The 2026 festival on Midland Road had hundreds of vendors, food trucks, kids' activities, live music and a classic car show. Tip: 2027 hours are not posted yet (the 2026 festival ran 9am-4pm); check poway.com before you go.

La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival

La Jolla · San Diego

The 70th annual parade starts at Kline & Girard, followed by a free festival at the La Jolla Rec Center with games, crafts, Santa visits and a new Christmas Market. Tip: La Jolla village parking is very tight, so park farther out or use a rideshare and walk in.

Celebrate Burbank Parade and Street Fair

Burbank · Los Angeles

A parade followed by an all-day street fair along Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank's Magnolia Park district.

CORRECTED 2026-09-15: the organizer's own site (celebrateburbank.com, which redirects to its Eventeny page) confirms the May 15, 2027 postponement directly — this was previously dismissed here as an unconfirmed third-party-only date.

Dia de los Muertos at Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica · Los Angeles

The Santa Monica Pier's events list shows Dia de los Muertos on November 1, 2026, free, with art installations, live performances and community altars. The event's own page still shows the 2025 schedule, and no 2026 hours are posted yet. Tip: the 2025 edition was in the Merry-Go-Round building, but 2026 hours and venue are unconfirmed, so check santamonicapier.org before you go.

NoHo Summer Nights Dia de los Muertos Celebration

North Hollywood · Los Angeles

A family Dia de los Muertos festival at Victory Vineland Recreation Center with small-business vendors, food trucks, music and family activities. It is presented by Valley Cultural Foundation's NoHo Summer Nights. Tip: it's a small park venue, so street parking gets tight after 2pm.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Big Bear Lake · Inland Empire

A German-style festival held on weekends each fall at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, with German bands, food, dancing and contests. 2026 is its 56th year.

New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade at Snow Summit

Big Bear Lake · Inland Empire

The 62nd annual show has 200+ skiers and snowboarders carrying torches down the mountain, with a free viewing area and no registration. It is a kid-friendly way to see in the new year at a decent hour. Tip: dress in heavy layers, since it is freezing after dark, and check chain requirements on Highways 18 and 330.

Sherman Oaks Street Fair

Sherman Oaks · Los Angeles

A chamber of commerce street fair closing Ventura Boulevard between Kester and Van Nuys, with vendor booths, food and entertainment. 2026 is its 34th year.

Palm Springs Retro Market (weekly)

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A weekly vintage market on Sunday mornings at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, October through May. Tip: go early, since it wraps up at 1pm.

Scoop Palm Springs Ice Cream Festival (2nd annual)

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A downtown ice-cream festival at Downtown Park with sweet treats and entertainment. Hours and pricing are not confirmed here. Tip: check the listing for tasting-ticket details before you go.

Coachella Valley Filipino Festival

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A free community festival at Palm Springs Downtown Park celebrating Filipino food, culture, music and art, from lechon and lumpia to live performances. Tip: go hungry, since the food is the main draw.

Palm Springs Holiday Market at VillageFest

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

An outdoor gift market on Palm Canyon Drive with local art, artisanal food, live music and treats. Tip: check the exact market nights before you go.

Range from the Visit Palm Springs listing; confirm the exact market nights (VillageFest is normally a weekly evening street fair).

Palm Springs Pride

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A three-day downtown street festival and Sunday parade run by a local nonprofit, with a 5K run and walk on the Saturday. One of the larger annual gatherings in downtown Palm Springs.

Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade (29th annual)

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A downtown parade of about an hour, followed by a patriotic concert and a fireworks finale at Amado Road and Palm Canyon Drive. Tip: the fireworks come after the parade, so plan to stay for both.

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

An illuminated night parade down Palm Canyon Drive with lighted floats, marching bands and performing groups. Started in the early 1990s.

Route runs along Palm Canyon Drive from Ramon Road north to Tachevah.

City of Palm Springs Holiday Tree Lighting

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

The tree lighting at Frances Stevens Park, preceded at 4pm by the Holiday Banner Awards for local student artists, with the Mayor and City Council. Tip: it is the night before the Festival of Lights Parade, so you can do both.

Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off

San Diego · San Diego

A one-day street fair along Newport Avenue with an oceanfront chili cook-off, two music stages, artist alley and three children's fun zones. The 2026 edition was the 46th annual.

47th annual; Chili Cook-Off 11am-1:30pm (tastings $5); beer garden 21+

OB Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

San Diego · San Diego

Ocean Beach's quirky beach-town parade goes up Newport Avenue with creative floats, marching bands and local groups, preceded by a tree lighting. Tip: parking is scarce, so park east of Sunset Cliffs Blvd and walk in, or bring a folding chair and stake a curb spot by mid-afternoon.

Victorville Winter Festival & Tree Lighting

Victorville · Inland Empire

Snow play, sledding, ice gliding and kids' activities by day. In the evening there are carriage rides, ice skating, Santa visits, cocoa and cookies, and the official tree lighting at City Hall. Tip: sledding and ice gliding need pre-registration, so sign up ahead.

Día de los Muertos in Old Town

San Diego · San Diego

Old Town State Historic Park hosts 40+ altars, a Catrina contest, a weekend mercado, sugar-skull workshops, mariachi and folklórico, and a candlelit procession at sunset on Nov 2. Tip: the free ranger-led altar tours start at the Robinson Rose Visitor Center. Fiesta de Reyes adds a new lighting package that makes the late-afternoon-to-evening visit the best time for kids and photos.

San Diego Tet Festival

San Diego · San Diego

The largest celebration of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year in San Diego County, held at Naval Training Center Park with live music, traditional lion dances and cultural performances. It also has a Cultural Village with Vietnamese customs and cuisine. Tip: Saturday afternoon is the best time for lion dances and food, and daily hours have not been posted for 2027.

San Fernando Dia de los Muertos Cultural Festival

San Fernando · Los Angeles

The City of San Fernando's cultural festival at Recreation Park (208 Park Ave.) honors loved ones with altar building, a Catrin/Catrina contest and art displays. Free to attend. Tip: call 818-898-1290 if you want to build an altar or enter the costume contest.

San Fernando Holiday Tree Lighting

San Fernando · Los Angeles

The lighting of the downtown holiday tree on San Fernando Road (between Brand Blvd. and San Fernando Mission Blvd.) with carols, entertainment and a visit from Santa. Free to attend. Tip: dress in layers since it runs after dark.

Lakeside Western Days Parade

Lakeside · San Diego

A morning parade from the Lakeside Chamber celebrating the town's western heritage and the Lakeside Rodeo, running down Woodside Avenue to Lakeshore Drive.

The 2026 parade was Apr 25; the 2027 date is not yet posted

Victorville Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony

Victorville · Inland Empire

The 30th annual parade runs from 7th and Tracy Streets to 7th Street and Forrest Avenue in Old Town Victorville. A ceremony follows at the Veterans Memorial. Tip: it is on a weekday morning, so plan around school. (Coordinates are approximate for Old Town.)

Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village

San Diego · San Diego

A holiday village on India Street between W. Cedar and W. Grape, with vendors, live entertainment, two lit trees (one a 25-foot permanent tree at Piazza della Famiglia) and Santa. Tip: it lands on the same night as the OB parade and Chula Vista Starlight, so arrive by 4pm to get Santa time before the 6:30 lighting.

Trick-or-Treat on India Street

San Diego · San Diego

Little Italy hosts urban trick-or-treating at participating businesses on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 3:30 to 7:30pm. The Piazza della Famiglia becomes a Nightmare Before Christmas scene with a 13-foot Jack Skellington, and W. Cedar through W. Grape Streets close to cars. Tip: pick up an event map at the Piazza (India & W. Date St.) or scan the QR codes along India Street.

Apple Valley Christmas Tree Lighting

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

The Town's holiday kickoff is on its 2026 Save the Date calendar for Tuesday, Dec 1. Tip: time and venue aren't published yet; it is a weeknight evening event, so plan for after school and confirm at 760-240-7800.

Holiday in the Village (La Mesa)

La Mesa · San Diego

The 11th annual downtown La Mesa holiday street festival on La Mesa Blvd. between Spring St. and 4th St., with holiday vendors, and sponsor activations that include an ice-skating rink, mini golf, a Santa nook, a Mrs. Claus reading nook and a winter wonderland. Tip: the day runs 9 hours, so go early afternoon for shorter lines and leave before the evening crowd.

America on Main Street

El Cajon · San Diego

El Cajon's largest block party, filling East Main Street with multiple entertainment stages, American and ethnic food booths, rides, a petting zoo and craft booths.

The city says no event is planned for 2026; the 2027 date has not been posted

Sherman Heights Día de los Muertos

San Diego · San Diego

A community tradition since 1994 with 25+ neighborhood altars, plus free calavera mask and piñata workshops for families. It closes with Tradiciones Vivas (Nov 1) and a candlelight procession with danza azteca (Nov 2). Tip: the free family craft workshops (Oct 19-20 masks, Oct 29 piñatas) are the easiest way in with kids.

Coronado Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

Coronado · San Diego

A parade down Orange Avenue followed by the lighting of a 120-foot Christmas tree with 18,000+ lights at Rotary Plaza. Tip: Friday evening draws crowds of about 17,000, so take the ferry or bus from downtown rather than driving over the bridge.

Granada Hills Street Faire

Granada Hills · Los Angeles

A chamber street fair on Chatsworth Street with vendor booths, food and live music. 2026 is the 22nd annual, with a Rotary Oktoberfest alongside it.

Chumash Day Native American Powwow & Intertribal Gathering

Malibu · Los Angeles

The City of Malibu's family-friendly powwow at Malibu Bluffs Park honoring the Chumash with tribal dances, ceremonies, Native artisan vendors and food. The 2026 edition ran 10am-6pm with a Grand Entry at noon. Tip: there is no on-site parking at Malibu Bluffs Park, so plan on the free off-site lot and shuttle if the 2027 setup matches.

Barrio Logan Día de Muertos

San Diego · San Diego

A free neighborhood festival near Chicano Park with live stages, youth workshops, a market, ofrendas, a lowrider showcase and a Catrina contest among the murals. Tip: take the trolley to Barrio Logan station, since street parking fills early. Date is from the San Diego Tourism Authority listing; the organizer page still shows the 2025 event.

Chicano Park Day (57th annual)

San Diego · San Diego

The 57th annual celebration of the Chicano Park takeover in Barrio Logan, with lowrider cars, vendor booths and community festivities under the Coronado Bridge murals. It is a free public event. Tip: the date comes from an event-listing page; the park's own site says Chicano Park Day falls on the Saturday nearest April 22, which fits, but it has not posted 2027 details yet.

Canoga Park Día de los Muertos Family Festival

Canoga Park · Los Angeles

Main Street Canoga Park's 26th annual Día de los Muertos festival along Sherman Way, with community altars, live music, a classic car show, art activities and food trucks.

Julian Country Christmas Tree Lighting

Julian · San Diego

The mountain town's holiday kickoff at Julian Town Square — afternoon music, craft booths, Santa's arrival and the tree lighting around 6pm, starting a season of Country Christmas activities.

Nov 28 comes from the San Diego tourism calendar, not the organizer; the organizer page still shows last year's 'November 30' text. Confirm with the Julian Chamber (760-765-1857) before relying on it.

Julian's Country Christmas Tree Lighting

Julian · San Diego

A free small-town tree lighting in Julian Town Square with musical entertainment all day and craft vendor booths for holiday shopping. Santa arrives at 6pm to meet children, and Visit Julian is listed as the organizer. Tip: the date comes from the San Diego tourism bureau's listing, not visitjulian.com, which shows no 2026 dates yet. Dress warmly, because Julian is at about 4,200 ft and gets cold after dark.

Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

Decorated golf carts parade the length of El Paseo, a Palm Desert tradition since the mid-1960s and now in its 62nd year, with a themed entry contest.

CORRECTED 2026-09-15: the operator's own site (golfcartparade.org) does publish this date — it was previously listed here as unconfirmed.

Annual Native American Celebration (Antelope Valley Indian Museum)

Lancaster · Los Angeles

A two-day cultural celebration at the state-run museum in the Antelope Valley's high desert. It sits in a Depression-era building tucked into the rocks. Tip: call (661) 946-3055 for the program, and bring water and sun protection.

Dates from the California State Parks museum page. Program and times are not published there. Museum hours are Sat-Sun 11am-4pm.

Santa Clarita Art Hop

Santa Clarita · Los Angeles

A free daytime art event at William S. Hart Park in Old Town Newhall, listed on the City of Santa Clarita's events page. Tip: pair it with a walk through Hart Park's grounds and Old Town Newhall's Main Street.

Kaleidoscope Art & Music Festival

Palmdale · Los Angeles

A City of Palmdale fall arts festival at Marie Kerr Park with more than 100 artists, live art demonstrations, multiple music stages, food vendors and free children's activities.

Día de los Muertos on Third Avenue

Chula Vista · San Diego

The 6th annual Day of the Dead street celebration in downtown Chula Vista, with an ofrenda competition, a Catrín and Catrina contest, a community altar, car show, kids' crafts and live performances along Third Avenue.

Chula Vista Starlight Parade & Festival (62nd)

Chula Vista · San Diego

The City of Chula Vista's 62nd annual holiday parade and festival on Third Avenue with floats, a holiday market and photos with Santa. The official site has not yet posted 2026 hours; last year's festival opened at 3pm with the tree lighting at 5:30pm and the parade at 6pm. Tip: city lots offered free parking all day last year, so arrive early for a curb spot.

Borrego Springs Día de los Muertos

Borrego Springs · San Diego

OLAX de Borrego hosts its annual community celebration of life, remembrance and culture at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center (587 Palm Canyon Dr) with music, art, food and remembrance. The organizer lists the time as to be determined. Tip: check their site for the schedule and pair it with a desert stargazing night.

Borrego Days Desert Festival

Borrego Springs · San Diego

The 60th annual desert town festival at Christmas Circle Community Park and Palm Canyon Drive. Saturday opens with a flyover and the hometown parade, then music, food and vendor booths.

Reconfirmed on the organizer's site; no change needed

La Quinta Art Celebration

La Quinta · Inland Empire

An outdoor juried art fair on the lawns of the La Quinta Civic Center, running twice a year in November and March. Artists are selected by jury from national and international applicants.

Westlake Village Holiday Sing-Along

Westlake Village · Los Angeles

The city's holiday caroling event at The Shoppes at Westlake Village with live music, a photo booth, hot cocoa, face painting and a food and toy giving drive. Tip: bring a canned-food donation for Manna Food Bank and enter the raffle for donating.

Santa Clarita Marathon, Half, 10K & 5K

Santa Clarita · Los Angeles

A USATF-certified race on the traffic-free Santa Clarita bike path, starting at Heritage Park, with a 5K at 7:45am. Finishers get a medal, shirt and street tacos. Tip: the 5K works for families who walk. It has a 7-hour limit and the course is car-free.

Nov 15, 2026 is from the official registration page. The city community calendar's recurring listing says Nov 9, which is a Monday, so it was rejected.

Holiday in the Park (Six Flags Magic Mountain)

Valencia · Los Angeles

Holiday lights, a tree-lighting spectacular, shows, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and some rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Food, crafts and some experiences cost extra. Tip: buy tickets online for a chosen date and use the Six Flags app for showtimes.

Official page says 'Select Days, November 27 - January 4'. Check the site for the exact calendar.

Simi Valley Fall Street Fair

Simi Valley · Los Angeles

A 9am-4pm street fair on Simi Town Center Way with craft and food vendors and a free Kids' FunZone. Tip: the Kids' FunZone is the main kid draw, so go before noon.

A Magical BLVD Christmas

Lancaster · Los Angeles

The City of Lancaster's page says 'See you on December 12, 2026!' for A Magical BLVD Christmas, with a Christkindlmarkt, Christmas rides, Santa's Workshop, sledding in real snow, lights and a visit with Santa. The stage schedule and vendor lists are still marked coming soon. Tip: hours were not yet posted, and the pin is on the BLVD (Lancaster Blvd) downtown, so check the city page for times.

Hwy 62 Open Studio Art Tours

Joshua Tree · Inland Empire

Hundreds of Morongo Basin artists open their home studios across Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, Pioneertown, Landers, Twentynine Palms and Wonder Valley, 10am-5pm each tour day. Now in its 25th year.

Run with Los Muertos 5K & Block Party

Coachella · Inland Empire

A Día de los Muertos-themed 5K that ends in a block party in Old Town Coachella, with community groups, artists and musicians. Tip: the run is separate from the party, so families can skip the race and join the block party.

Festival de los Muertos at Borchard Community Center

Newbury Park · Los Angeles

CRPD's first Festival de los Muertos, a free family event at Borchard Community Center (190 N. Reino Rd.) with crafts, live music, vendors and food. Tip: it is a first-year event, so expect a smaller community-scale crowd and arrive by 4pm for the craft tables.

Camarillo Christmas Parade & Santa's Village (64th Annual)

Camarillo · Los Angeles

The 'A Coastal Christmas' parade starts at 10am at Temple Ave and Las Posas Rd and ends at Community Center Park (1605 E. Burnley St). Santa's Village runs 10am-2pm with vendors, food trucks, crafts, inflatables and photos with Santa from 12:30pm. Tip: the parade lasts 1.5-2 hours, so park at the Community Center lot when it opens at 12:30pm or walk in.

Twentynine Palms Pioneer Days

Twentynine Palms · Inland Empire

The 90th annual Pioneer Days centers on a downtown parade with marching bands, floats, classic cars and Marines from the nearby base, alongside outhouse races, a kids fest and a car show.

Twentynine Palms Weed Show

Twentynine Palms · Inland Empire

An 86-year-old hi-desert tradition at the Old Schoolhouse Museum where residents build judged arrangements from native desert plants and found objects. Nine award categories including People's Choice.

Santa Paula Christmas Parade

Santa Paula · Los Angeles

A 10am downtown parade that welcomes Santa and starts the holiday season, co-sponsored by the City and the Optimist Club. Tip: the 2025 parade was an evening event, and the city lists 2026 as 10am on a Saturday, so re-confirm the time on the city page. Pair it with the pancake breakfast with Santa on Dec 5 (pre-registration required).

Dia de los Muertos at Oxnard Performing Arts Center (7th Annual)

Oxnard · Los Angeles

A free 5-9pm celebration with community altars, folklorico and indigenous dance, music, Mexican food vendors, art shows and hands-on crafts. Tip: it's a good first Dia de los Muertos for kids, so let them add a photo or note to a community altar.

Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights (51st Annual)

Dana Point · Orange County

Dana Point Harbor's 51st annual parade of lighted, decorated boats runs three nights, with the 2026 theme "Harboritaville". Watch from the Lantern District and harbor waterfront. Tip: use the free Dana Point trolley or arrive well before dark, because harbor parking fills early on parade nights.

Boat Ride with Santa (Dana Wharf)

Dana Point · Orange County

Kids ride the Dana Pride around the harbor with Santa Claus in 20-minute sailings. Book at danawharf.com/boat-ride. Tip: time slots sell out, so reserve early; Dec 5 is also the La Plaza Park tree lighting day in town.

Dana Point Festival of Whales

Dana Point · Orange County

A Dana Point Harbor weekend timed to the gray whale migration — marine exhibits, conservation talks, a makers market, car show and live music. Now in its 56th year.

Happy Harbor Days Holiday Lights (Dana Point Harbor)

Dana Point · Orange County

The harbor's annual holiday display runs about two months and includes favorites like Happy Harbor Days and Merry Kiss Me. A holiday map and guide are posted on the harbor site. Tip: this is the display that the Santa Paws and holiday market events sit beside, so combine them with a weekend visit.

Corona del Mar Scenic 5K & 2-Mile Fun Walk (46th Annual)

Newport Beach · Orange County

Starts on the bluffs above Corona del Mar State Beach with a 5K, a 2-mile family walk, a 2-mile youth run and a 1K Kids' Dolphin Dash at 9am. Registration includes a shirt, bib, chip timing and a breakfast from the village restaurants. Tip: early-bird rates are cheapest, and walk-in registration is at the Oasis Senior Center the day before.

Fire & Lights Festival and Lighting of the Bay (Newport Dunes)

Newport Beach · Orange County

The 36th Lighting of the Bay floats 50+ holiday light displays on the waveless back bay. Fri–Sun evenings add fire-dancer shows, fire pits, photos with Santa, inflatables and a toboggan tunnel, and opening night on Fri Nov 27 has Santa switch on the lights around 6pm plus a holiday movie on the beach. Tip: closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day, weather can close it, and there is no ice rink this year.

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Newport Beach · Orange County

A century-old holiday tradition where 100+ lavishly lit boats parade Newport Harbor — magical for kids and free from the waterfront.

SoCal Corgi Beach Day

Huntington Beach · Orange County

Thousands of corgis and their people take over Huntington City Beach, with vendors and food trucks. Free and open to the public, and dogs of all kinds are welcome. Tip: park at Huntington Ave & PCH or Beach Blvd & PCH ($15/day) and arrive before lunch, since the 3,000-space lot fills.

Surf City Marathon Weekend (Beach Mile, 5K, Half, Full)

Huntington Beach · Orange County

A race weekend along PCH past the Huntington Beach Pier with a Beach Mile on Saturday and the 5K, half and full marathon on Sunday. The Beach Mile and 5K are the family-friendly options, and spectating is free. Tip: PCH closes for the races, so park early or use a ride service.

Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights

Huntington Beach · Orange County

Narrated 45-minute boat tours through Huntington Harbour past decorated waterfront homes, run as a fundraiser by the Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee. Boats are open-air and sell out early.

50-minute narrated cruises. Free parking at the Huntington Harbour Mall rear lot with shuttle to the boats; arrive at least 15 minutes early. Ticket prices are not shown on the page, so check the ticket link.

Huntington Harbour Boat Parade

Huntington Beach · Orange County

A volunteer-run parade of decorated boats through Huntington Harbour, held to thank the residents who decorate their homes. It kicks off the Cruise of Lights fundraiser season. Tip: the site's older text still references 2025 dates, so confirm the evening start time and the live-stream option before you go.

Seal Beach Christmas Tree Lighting

Seal Beach · Orange County

The Chamber of Commerce hosts a beach-style holiday kickoff at the base of the Seal Beach Pier with sledding for children, a kids craft area, carolers, gingerbread cookies, hot cocoa, a life-size snowman for photos and a visit from Santa. Tip: bring warm layers since the pier wind picks up at dusk, and pick up the $20 seal-in-sleigh ornament early because they sell out.

Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival

Long Beach · Los Angeles

A one-day dragon boat racing festival at Marine Stadium with community team races, cultural performances and food vendors along the shoreline.

Confirmed on the City of Long Beach special events calendar (Marine Stadium; organizer www.lbdragonboat.com).

Oceanside Harbor Days

Oceanside · San Diego

A weekend maritime festival at Oceanside Harbor with arts and crafts booths, live music and food along the water.

Historically late September; 2026 dates not posted on the chamber site. Confirm before planning.

O'side Turkey Trot 5K & Kids Run

Oceanside · San Diego

Oceanside's 20th annual Thanksgiving 5K run/walk and Kids Run starting at 330 N Coast Highway and finishing behind the amphitheater on the strand, with a costume contest and team competition; proceeds benefit the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and local nonprofits. Tip: start times are on the registration page; costumes are encouraged.

LA Harbor Holiday Afloat Parade

San Pedro · Los Angeles

Decorated boats, harbor craft and tall ships parade the Port of Los Angeles main channel from the Wilmington marinas to San Pedro, viewable from the waterfront promenade. The tradition dates to the early 1960s.

The organizer site was unavailable during research, so the 2026 date could not be confirmed

Catalina Polar Bear Plunge (New Year's Day)

Avalon · Los Angeles

New Year's Day cold-water swim (about a mile, 7:30am at Casino Dive Park) and a family-friendly 11:30am plunge at Middle Beach. Tip: bring towels and warm layers, and check the ferry schedule, since holiday sailings sell out.

The 7:30am swim is for intermediate-to-advanced swimmers; the 11:30am plunge at Middle Beach is described as family-friendly.

Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K & Kids Run

Avalon · Los Angeles

The 49th annual trail race on Catalina Island Conservancy land, with a 5K, 10K and Kids Run at 9am that suit families (marathon start at 7am). Prices rise Dec 29, 2026 for the 10K/5K. Tip: book the Catalina Express and lodging early, since race weekend fills up.

King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade

Redondo Beach · Los Angeles

An evening parade of decorated boats through King Harbor organized by the King Harbor Yacht Club, paired with a daytime waterfront market near the Redondo Beach Pier.

Confirmed on the organizer's site: Dec 12, 2026 at King Harbor, Redondo Beach. A Concert on the Pier is also listed, with time TBD.

Jamboree Days

Crestline · Inland Empire

Crestline's Independence Day celebration — a morning parade through downtown, a fun zone with games and vendors, and fireworks over Lake Gregory at 9pm. A parade tradition running over 60 years.

Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks (38th Annual)

Manhattan Beach · Los Angeles

A December fireworks show over the Manhattan Beach Pier, preceded by a snow park, strolling carolers, a Santa float and live music on the pier stage, drawing an estimated 20,000 people. The fireworks begin at exactly 7pm and wrap up by 7:30pm. Tip: blankets are allowed on Manhattan Beach Blvd from 4pm, so claim a spot early and consider a rideshare because downtown streets close Sunday afternoon.

Lake Arrowhead Oktober Fest

Lake Arrowhead · Inland Empire

A seven-weekend German festival at Waterfront Park in Lake Arrowhead Village with food, live music, dancing and contests like the sausage toss. Entry is free and seating is first-come.

Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

Marina del Rey · Los Angeles

The 64th annual parade of lit and decorated boats through the main channel, viewable from Burton Chace Park, Fisherman's Village and the jetty.

Confirmed by organizer: 64th annual, theme 'Hollywood Under The Stars', begins with a light show; held the second Saturday of December.

Coronado Independence Day Parade

Coronado · San Diego

An all-day island celebration built around a mid-morning parade down Orange Avenue, plus concerts in Spreckels Park, a Navy parachute demonstration and evening fireworks.

The 77th parade was Jul 4, 2026; the 2027 schedule is not yet posted

Coronado Turkey Trot (13th annual)

Coronado · San Diego

A flat, scenic 5K walk/run/trot that benefits research and treatment at Rady Children's Hospital. Tip: registration is through the race site linked on Discover Coronado; start location and times are posted there (coordinates are a general Coronado point).

Coronado Valentine's Day 10K, 5K & Fun Run

Coronado · San Diego

Runners of all abilities run a 10K, 5K or a 1-mile fun run on Coronado Island; the 1-mile fun run is the one for kids. Tip: register through the link on Discover Coronado and expect street closures on race morning.

Reindeer Paddle at Channel Islands Harbor

Oxnard · Los Angeles

The 2nd annual holiday paddle, listed for 11am-1pm at Channel Islands Harbor. Tip: check the harbor event page for registration and rental details before you go.

Parade of Lights at Channel Islands Harbor (60th Annual)

Oxnard · Los Angeles

The 60th annual boat parade runs 7-9pm with a Hawaiian/tropical theme. Tip: the harbor says more details are coming, so re-check the page. Arrive early because waterfront parking fills.

Fiesta de Solano

Rancho Santa Margarita · Orange County

A Catholic parish fiesta on the San Francisco Solano campus that functions as a general RSM community event — carnival rides, game booths, food vendors and live music.

The parish publishes no dates; recent years ran the second weekend of July. Call to confirm.

Sawdust Winter Fantasy

Laguna Beach · Orange County

The Sawdust grounds in Laguna Canyon reopen for winter weekends as a handcrafted holiday village with artist booths, craft demonstrations and seasonal music. Separately ticketed from the summer festival.

Ocean Institute Maritime Festival (Tall Ships)

Dana Point · Orange County

The Ocean Institute's tall ships weekend in Dana Point Harbor — visiting historic ships, mock cannon battles, pirate school, reenactors and live music.

Official sites were unreachable during research, so no date could be confirmed

Tustin Veterans Day Celebration & Car Show

Tustin · Orange County

The city calendar lists a Veterans Day celebration with a car show at Veterans Sports Park. Tip: arrive early for the best parking and fewer crowds around the cars.

Orange County Korean Festival

Garden Grove · Orange County

A Korean American community festival held in Orange County since the early 1980s — traditional drumming and dance, K-pop performances, food vendors and cultural booths at Garden Grove Park.

No official page with confirmed dates could be located; the Korean American Federation of OC posts updates on Facebook

Brea's Country Fair

Brea · Orange County

A morning-to-afternoon Independence Day fair at Brea City Hall Park — pancake breakfast, kiddie parade, dog parade, classic car show and live entertainment. One of the more genuinely small-town July 4 events in north OC.

Silverado Days

Buena Park · Orange County

Buena Park's 70th annual community festival at William Peak Park, run by the Noon Lions Club — carnival rides, food and craft booths, competitions. Free to get in.

49th Annual Mission Inn Foundation Run & Health Expo

Riverside · Inland Empire

Downtown Riverside's signature race offers a half marathon, 10K, 5K and a family- and pet-friendly 5K walk, plus a Kids Fun Run and a health expo. Tip: the 5K walk and Kids Fun Run are the family options.

Art in the Gardens at UCR Botanic Gardens

Riverside · Inland Empire

California artists and craftspeople show ceramics, jewelry, mosaics, fiber arts, woodwork and photography along Alder Canyon at the UCR Botanic Gardens. Tip: the trails are the draw for kids; note campus parking is not included and requires a permit.

Patchwork Show Long Beach

Long Beach · Los Angeles

An indie makers' market at the Marine Stadium parking lot with local artisans, junior artists, live music, food trucks and DIY craft activities. It is dog- and bike-friendly, with a bike valet. Tip: it falls on Small Business Saturday, so go early for parking and holiday shopping.

Los Angeles County Fair 2027

Pomona · Los Angeles

The 2027 Fair (theme: 'Dig In Where Fun Grows') runs May 6-31 at Fairplex with carnival rides, live music, fair food, animals, agricultural exhibits and a dinosaur discovery exhibit. It is a spring fair, not a September one. Buy discounted advance tickets online and go on a weekday if you can.

Norwalk 5K Run/Walk (4th Annual)

Norwalk · Los Angeles

The city's community 5K on Civic Center Dr with a Children's 1K Dash at 8am, the 5K at 8:30am and awards at 9:45am. Same-day registration and bib pick-up runs 6:30–8:20am. Tip: registration opens Dec 1, 2026, so sign up early and use the 1K dash for kids too young for the 5K.

Lollipop Lane Craft Boutique (33rd Annual)

Lakewood · Los Angeles

More than 100 vendors selling handmade Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas crafts at Mayfair Park (5720 Clark Ave), plus a Kids Crafter Corner where young entrepreneurs ages 6–17 sell their own creations. Tip: park free at City Hall's east lot and ride the shuttle, which typically runs every 15 minutes from 9am to 3:30pm.

Formula Drift Pro Championship Round 8 (Long Beach)

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The season-ending pro drifting round takes over the streets around Marina Green, Rainbow Lagoon and Shoreline Dr. Kids who like cars will love the noise and smoke, but it is loud. Tip: bring ear protection for little ones and check the Formula Drift site for ticket details and gate times, since the city calendar only lists the permit.

All Toyotafest (31st Annual)

Long Beach · Los Angeles

The country's biggest Toyota car show, with hundreds of vintage and modern cars at Marina Green. Tip: kids 12 and under were free in 2026; arrive early, since the lawn gets crowded by late morning.

Sultans Shoreline Classic Car Show (34th Annual)

Long Beach · Los Angeles

A classic-car show at Shoreline Park next to Rainbow Harbor, listed on the City of Long Beach special events calendar. Tip: pair it with a walk to Shoreline Village and the harbor carousel for kids.

Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach

Long Beach · Los Angeles

America's biggest street race takes over downtown Long Beach, with IndyCar, Formula Drift, a Lifestyle Expo, a Family Fun Zone and a car show. Tip: use rideshare or transit and get kids ear protection, because the cars are very loud.

Fontana Days Festival and Parade

Fontana · Inland Empire

A four-day carnival-style community festival at Veterans Park run by the Exchange Club of Fontana, with a parade and vendor booths. The 2027 edition is the 114th annual — one of the oldest continuously held community festivals in the Inland Empire.

Fiestas de Octubre

Santa Fe Springs · Los Angeles

A two-day city-run fall festival at Los Nietos Park, preceded by a separate gala at the Clarke Estate. One of the city's long-standing annual celebrations.

Los Angeles Fall Fair

South El Monte · Los Angeles

A 12-acre fall carnival at La Prada Event Plaza in Whittier Narrows with rides, games, live music on weekends, food and Halloween trick-or-treating at game booths. Free cotton candy for costumed visitors. Tip: buy wristbands in advance (cheaper) and go Friday evening for smaller crowds.

Redlands Festival of Arts (Memorial Day Weekend)

Redlands · Inland Empire

The 2027 live show and sale takes place over Memorial Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, May 29-30 in Smiley Park, Redlands, with artist applications open. Past editions have included a Youth Art Expo, kids' hands-on art activities, live music and food vendors. Tip: The 2026 edition ran 10am-5pm, so confirm 2027 hours before you go.

Azusa Golden Days

Azusa · Los Angeles

A week-long city celebration that closes with a carnival and a parade down San Gabriel Avenue. The 2026 edition is themed around the Route 66 centennial.

Temple City Camellia Festival

Temple City · Los Angeles

A three-day carnival in Temple City Park with a Saturday parade of handmade camellia-flower floats built by local youth groups, plus the crowning of first-graders as Camellia Queen and King. Running since 1944.

Monrovia Days

Monrovia · Los Angeles

The city's birthday celebration at Library Park — an evening parade up Myrtle Avenue honoring local students, carnival rides and games, youth performances and a pie-eating contest. 2026 marked 140 years of the city.

Parade Thu May 13 at 7pm on Myrtle Ave; carnival and festival at Library Park Fri-Sun; parade applications open Jan 2027

Street Rods Forever Car Show (Old Town Monrovia)

Monrovia · Los Angeles

A classic-car show in Old Town Monrovia from the city's fall event list. Hours and admission were not posted, so check the city page before going. Old Town restaurants make it easy to pair with lunch.

City lists the date only; hours not yet posted

San Gabriel Mission Fiesta

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

A parish carnival on the Mission San Gabriel grounds with rides, game booths, bingo, international food stalls and folk performances, marking the anniversary of the mission's 1771 founding.

The organizer's site did not display 2026 dates when checked; confirm before going

San Gabriel Turkey Trot

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

A city-listed Turkey Trot fun run starting at 7am. The calendar gives no start location or fee yet (the pin is set at Plaza Park downtown as a placeholder), so confirm both before you plan. Tip: an early Thanksgiving-week race is easiest with kids if you pre-register and pack layers for the cool morning.

Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center Opening (Space Shuttle Endeavour)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

The California Science Center opens its 200,000 sq ft Air and Space Center on Nov 13, 2026, with Space Shuttle Endeavour stacked in launch position and hands-on aviation and space galleries. The Exposition Park calendar lists opening weekend Nov 14-15 as a significant museum event. Tip: sign up for the museum newsletter and book timed entry as early as it opens, since opening-weekend demand will be very high.

City of STEM + Los Angeles Maker Faire 2027

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

The Los Angeles County science festival and Maker Faire returns to Exposition Park with hands-on science, robotics and maker exhibits for all ages. The 2026 edition was free. Tip: the Metro E Line's Expo Park/USC stop drops you at the park, so skip the parking scramble; go Saturday morning for the shortest lines.

DroneArt Show: Harry Potter

Del Mar · San Diego

More than 1,200 drones take flight in the Grandstand set to music from the Harry Potter films. A good pick for school-age kids and up who will stay up past 7pm. Tip: bring a jacket because the coastal Fairgrounds turn cool after dark, and buy parking 24 hours ahead to save $4.

Larchmont Family Fair

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Larchmont Boulevard closes between Beverly and First for carnival rides, a children's stage, and costume and pie-baking contests. The 2025 edition was the 60th annual.

The organizer does not maintain a public event site; no 2026 date posted

Rancho Bernardo Spirit of the Fourth

Rancho Bernardo · San Diego

An all-day Independence Day tradition in its 57th year — a morning fair at Webb Park with vendor booths, quilt and motor shows and a veterans ceremony, an afternoon parade of ~100 entries, then fireworks at Rancho Bernardo High.

57th annual in 2026; 2027 details not yet posted

Old Miners' Days

Big Bear Lake · Inland Empire

Big Bear's long-running summer heritage celebration — a parade down Big Bear Blvd, a carnival, a chili cook-off and the Doo Dah Parade in Fawnskin. Held since the late 1940s.

Run each summer since the late 1940s; the organizer's listing showed no posted dates

Palm Springs Air Museum Halloween Chili Tasting & Car Show

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A classic-car show starting at 10am, with chili tastings from 11am made from the museum volunteers' recipes, alongside the WWII aircraft hangars. Tip: kids can combine the cars with the airplane exhibits, so come around 10am to see the show cars before the lunch crowd.

Air Museum 30th Anniversary Air Fair & Veterans Day Celebration

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A veterans celebration at the Air Museum that includes the dedication of what the museum calls America's first publicly displayed F/A-18 Super Hornet. Tip: kids who like jets should see the Super Hornet up close, but check the museum's page for admission, since it is not listed here.

Gator by the Bay

San Diego · San Diego

A Louisiana-themed music and food festival at Spanish Landing Park with about 100 performances across seven stages and a large crawfish boil.

Historically held in May; no confirmed 2027 dates listed

December Nights

San Diego · San Diego

A two-evening holiday festival across Balboa Park where museums extend hours and most offer free evening admission, alongside international food and performances along El Prado.

Dates confirmed by the City of San Diego page

San Diego EarthFest

San Diego · San Diego

San Diego's largest Earth Day celebration, with 100+ vendors, live entertainment, speakers, food trucks, wellness classes and a kids zone, on the Balboa Park Boulevard and Presidents Way Lawn. Admission and parking are free, and doors open at 10:30am. Tip: come by mid-morning for the kids zone and free parking before the lawn fills up.

Apple Valley 19th Annual Pet Fair

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

The Town of Apple Valley's annual Pet Fair appears on its official 2026 Save the Date calendar for Oct 17. Time and venue aren't published there. Tip: call the Town's special events line at 760-240-7800 for the venue and hours.

Apple Valley Holiday Craft Fair

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

A two-day holiday craft fair on the Town's 2026 calendar. Hours and venue are not published on the calendar. Tip: call 760-240-7800 for the venue and vendor list before you go.

Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival

Cathedral City · Inland Empire

A three-day city festival built around dawn balloon launches and an evening balloon glow, with carnival rides, a classic car show, vendors and live entertainment.

Coronado Flower Show

Coronado · San Diego

A two-day outdoor flower and garden show in Spreckels Park run by the Coronado Floral Association. The 2026 show was the 104th.

Coronado Artisans Alley Craft Fair (54th)

Coronado · San Diego

The 54th annual holiday craft fair with more than 150 vendors of handmade crafts, plus live performances, listed by Discover Coronado. Tip: it falls the day after the Coronado Holiday Parade, so make a weekend of it; hours and admission are not posted on the visitor listing.

GameAcon Coachella Valley

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

A two-day gaming, cosplay and creators event at The Shops at Palm Desert. Tip: costumes are welcome, and it suits tweens and teens who like gaming.

Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival

Santa Clarita · Los Angeles

A western heritage festival at William S. Hart Park in Old Town Newhall with three stages of music, cowboy-themed vendors, line dancing, blacksmith demonstrations and mechanical bull riding.

BNP Paribas Open

Indian Wells · Inland Empire

The two-week combined ATP and WTA tennis event at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, with on-site entertainment, exhibits, demos and a kids' day. Tip: early-round days have the most matches to roam through with kids.

SAMLARC Halloween Family Festival (Rancho Santa Margarita)

Rancho Santa Margarita · Orange County

Central Park has inflatables, a petting zoo, pumpkin decorating, face painting, a rock wall, a mini digger, community trick-or-treating and food trucks. A costume contest has family, kids and baby categories, and after dark there's an outdoor Halloween movie with character meet-and-greets, popcorn and cider. Tip: this is run by the neighborhood association and needs an online account to register, so non-members should confirm guest access.

Santa's Workshop at Santa's Village (Mission Viejo)

Mission Viejo · Orange County

Santa and Mrs. Claus greet visitors at Santa's Village at Civic Center Plaza (200 Civic Center) with a candy cane and photo opportunities. It is open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from December 2 to 20. Tip: bring your own camera and go on a Wednesday for the shortest lines.

Ladera Ranch Harvest Festival

Ladera Ranch · Orange County

Founders Park hosts inflatables, carnival games, rock walls, mini golf, face painting, crafts, a Kids Market of young entrepreneurs and food trucks. A Kids Imagine Nation Halloween show is at 1:15pm and the costume contest at 2:15pm. Tip: presale wristbands run Sep 21–Oct 14 (cashless day-of), and the page doesn't say if non-residents may attend, so confirm.

Fall-O-Ween at Heritage Hill

Lake Forest · Orange County

An OC Parks fall event across two October weekends among the historic buildings of Heritage Hill — aimed at younger kids, not a scare attraction.

Pumpkin City Pumpkin Farm (Laguna Hills Mall)

Laguna Hills · Orange County

A pop-up pumpkin patch behind Trader Joe's at Laguna Hills Mall with kiddie rides, game booths, a petting zoo, gem mining and live entertainment; parking is free. Tip: weekday visits before 4pm are free, and most activities take 4–9 tickets, so buy a multi-pack.

Aliso Viejo Movie Night: Monsters, Inc.

Aliso Viejo · Orange County

The city screens Pixar's Monsters, Inc. at Aliso Viejo Ranch with games, themed crafts and food trucks starting at 5:30pm. Tip: eat at a food truck before the movie starts at sunset and bring blankets for the lawn.

Costume Week & Halloween's Eve at Pretend City

Irvine · Orange County

Toddlers and preschoolers come in costume for themed activities and story times all week, then Halloween's Eve on Oct 30 adds trick-or-treating at 10:30am, 12pm and 2pm plus a puppet show. Sensory-friendly Neurodivergent Family Halloween Nights run Oct 13 and 22, 5–7pm with registration. Tip: space is limited, so book tickets before you go; Oct 31 has no trick-or-treating.

Pumpkin Rescue at the Aquatics Center (Laguna Niguel)

Laguna Niguel · Orange County

Kids rescue their own pumpkin from a floating pumpkin patch in the pool, then decorate it with supplied materials. Afterward they can use the inflatable slide and open diving boards. Tip: pre-sale saves $5, and swimsuits and a towel are needed because everyone ends up wet.

Haunted Trails (Laguna Niguel)

Laguna Niguel · Orange County

The city's walk-through haunted trail at Crown Valley Park runs four evenings (about 6:30-9pm Thu/Sun, 6:30-9:30pm Fri/Sat). The city says it is not recommended for children under 10. Tip: buy presale tickets (online through Oct 21, or at Crown Valley Community Center) and choose Thursday or Sunday for shorter lines.

St. Joseph's Day & Return of the Swallows

San Juan Capistrano · Orange County

A single-day celebration at Mission San Juan Capistrano — the ringing of the historic bells, mariachi and flamenco, Native American storytelling and kids' crafts. Much more contained than the Swallows Day Parade later in the month.

Mission San Juan Capistrano's own events calendar lists the 2027 celebration. Mar 19, 2027 is a Friday.

Aladdin & Yasmin's Winter Wish (Laguna Playhouse holiday panto)

Laguna Beach · Orange County

The Lythgoe Family's holiday panto retells Aladdin with pop songs, comedy and big dance numbers at the Laguna Playhouse (606 Laguna Canyon Rd). Family Holiday Party pre-show events are offered on opening day. Tip: the page does not list per-show times, so check the ticket portal for matinee slots.

The Adventures of Tortoise & Hare (Lightwire Theater)

Laguna Beach · Orange County

Lightwire Theater tells the classic fable with glowing electroluminescent-wire puppets and music, suitable for all ages. Three Family Party pre-show events run around the performance. Tip: the site lists only the Family Party start times, so confirm show times when you buy.

Pumpkin Splash (San Clemente Aquatics Center)

San Clemente · Orange County

Kids swim into a floating pumpkin patch, pick a pumpkin to decorate (while supplies last), and play on inflatables and Halloween activities. A swim test is needed for the giant 50M inflatable, but not for the small Dolphin inflatable in the activity pool. Tip: presale closes 5pm the Friday before, and non-swimmers need a parent in the water within arm's reach.

Halloween Spooktacular & Trunk or Treat (Dana Point)

Dana Point · Orange County

The City of Dana Point's Recreation Division hosts a Halloween-themed trunk-or-treat in the Dana Point Community Center parking lot at 34052 Del Obispo St. Tip: bring a bag for candy and arrive early, because parking-lot events like this are compact and crowd up fast. Confirm start time and any fee with the city.

San Clemente Pumpkins & Harvest Festival (Outlets at San Clemente)

San Clemente · Orange County

A pumpkin patch with a Ferris wheel, kiddie rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, carnival games, face painting and a hay maze. The Outlets also run a Big Jack scavenger hunt from Oct 1, with a prize at Customer Service. Tip: weeknight evenings are free and quieter, and parking is free.

Little Folk Club Halloween Singalong (Bump Out Park)

Dana Point · Orange County

A free toddler-friendly singalong with Victoria Bailey right on Dana Point Harbor Drive. The listing also names later 2027 collaboration sessions, but only this Halloween session has a posted event page. Tip: bring a blanket and any small instruments you have at home.

Spooky Seas at the Ocean Institute

Dana Point · Orange County

Bioluminescence laser tag, a mad-scientist lab, haunted ship tours, a costume contest, photo booth and aquarium access, billed as family-friendly frights. Optional 45-minute Harbor Hayrides on the R/V Sea Explorer add cider, temporary tattoos and trick-or-treating, with Spooky Seas admission included. Tip: hayrides are a separate ticket, so buy them ahead.

Treat Street on Avenida Del Mar

San Clemente · Orange County

Downtown shops on Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real hand out treats to trick-or-treaters. Tip: look for the purple balloon outside participating businesses, which signals the shop is giving out candy.

Tustin Breakfast with Santa

Tustin · Orange County

Breakfast, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, activities and a dance party at the Tustin Community Center at The Market Place, with 9am and 10am seatings. Pre-registration is required, and Tustin residents (92780/92782) get priority on Nov 16. The venue coordinates are approximate. Tip: the DJ is loud, but a quiet break area and noise-canceling headphones are provided.

Tustin Halloween Howl & Trunk or Treat

Tustin · Orange County

Tustin Parks & Rec's Halloween evening with games, inflatables, a Trunk or Treat with the Tustin Police Department, a costume contest and a calm corner for little ones. The city page gives no venue, so the coordinates are approximate (city hall); confirm the location. Tip: the calm corner suits kids who get overwhelmed.

Easter Eggstravaganza at Irvine Park Railroad

Orange · Orange County

The railroad's spring event has children meet the Easter Bunny and join activities including egg hunts for ages 2-12, train rides, moon bounces, wagon rides, cookie decorating, face painting and carnival games. It runs from March 6 to April 4, 2027 at 1 Irvine Park Road. Tip: Timed egg hunts can sell out, so book ahead and go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.

Boo at the Bay: Family Halloween Party (Newport Beach)

Newport Beach · Orange County

OC Parks hosts a costume-friendly party at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center with spooky stories, crafts, science experiments, live animals and games. The Orange County Bird of Prey Center and Environmental Nature Center have booths. Tip: rain or inclement weather cancels it, so check OC Parks before you go.

Pacific Symphony Family Musical Mornings: Pixar in Concert

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A live orchestral performance with projected visuals, featuring music by Randy Newman, Michael Giacchino and Thomas Newman from Pixar films, at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Family Musical Mornings are 45-minute concerts designed for ages 5 and up, with pre-concert lobby crafts, games and instrument demos. Tip: Arrive 45 minutes early for the lobby activities, and note this is the Pacific Symphony show, separate from the Segerstrom Family Series 'Meet the Hatter' the same day.

Pacific Symphony Family Musical Mornings: The Little Prince Opera for Kids

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A family opera based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's novel, composed by Rachel Portman, exploring themes of friendship and imagination, at the Segerstrom Concert Hall. Concerts are 45 minutes and designed for ages 5 and up. Tip: Choose the 10am show to leave the afternoon free; the Beckman Arts & Science Family Festival is also in Costa Mesa this same day.

Yellow Bird Chase (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A hilarious wordless comedy with masks, puppets and playful gibberish about a maintenance crew chasing a magical yellow bird, recommended for ages 4 and up. All Family Series performances include an hour of free hands-on pre-show activities. Tip: arrive an hour early for the free pre-show activities.

Milo the Magnificent (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A wordless puppet comedy about an aspiring magician whose tricks do not always go as planned, recommended for ages 4 and up. Free hands-on pre-show activities run for an hour before each show. Tip: come early for the pre-show activities.

The Nutcracker for Kids (Pacific Symphony Family Musical Mornings)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A narrated, kid-length Nutcracker with dancers from the ABT William J. Gillespie School and the Pacific Symphony, recommended for ages 5 and up. Lobby activities include games, coloring stations and photo ops. Tip: lobby activities open at 9am for the 10am show and 12:15pm for the 11:30am show, and every attendee needs a ticket regardless of age.

Tales of the Sun and Moon (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A world-premiere show of celestial myths from Hawai'i and other cultures told through movement, music and story, recommended for ages 4 and up. Tip: pre-show activities are free and start an hour before curtain.

Meet the Hatter (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A dance and multimedia journey into Wonderland by Joss Arnott Dance, recommended for ages 5 and up. Tip: arrive early for the free pre-show activities.

The Pout-Pout Fish (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A puppet-and-live-performer musical based on the bestselling picture book, recommended for ages 4 and up. Tip: great for younger kids who already know the book; come early for pre-show crafts.

Peter and the Wolf (Segerstrom bonus option)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

An original storybook ballet set to Prokofiev's score, performed by pre-professional students of the ABT Gillespie School and recommended for ages 5 and up. Tip: a good first ballet for young kids.

GRIMMZ II: Once Upon A Rhyme (Segerstrom Family Series)

Costa Mesa · Orange County

Hip-hop spins on classic fairy tales with high-energy beats, recommended for ages 5 and up. Tip: geared toward older kids, so it suits ages 6 to 12.

Beckman Arts & Science Family Festival

Costa Mesa · Orange County

A free festival on the Argyros Plaza with hands-on STEM and STEAM exhibits from local organizations, live performances, bubble vendors, balloon twisters and mini train rides. Food is sold at George's Cafe and from food trucks. Tip: past exhibitors include the Santa Ana Zoo and Crystal Cove Conservancy, and the 2027 line-up is still being announced.

Halloween Spooktacular at Mariners Park (9th Annual)

Newport Beach · Orange County

The city's free Halloween party has a trunk-or-treat area, a haunted walkthrough, carnival games, bounce houses, food trucks and pumpkin decorating while supplies last. Costume contest sign-up is at the city booth 3–4:30pm and judging starts at 4:45pm. Tip: parking at Mariners Park is limited, so walk or bike, and get in the haunted walkthrough line before it closes at 5:45pm.

Mexican Day of the Dead Family Festival (Bowers Museum)

Santa Ana · Orange County

Bowers Museum's free Día de los Muertos family festival in the Key Courtyard, with live performances, art making, face painting and treats. Bowers publishes its 2026 festival schedule on its site. Tip: kids can join the art projects even if they do not want to sit through performances, so it works for short attention spans.

International Winter Holidays Family Festival (Bowers Museum)

Santa Ana · Orange County

A free courtyard festival at Bowers Museum with live performances, art projects and face painting, celebrating winter traditions from around the world. It is the last free family festival on Bowers' 2026 schedule. Tip: pair it with a walk to the nearby Santa Ana holiday sights, and note that the museum itself is closed Mondays.

Villa Park HalloweenFest

Villa Park · Orange County

An annual Halloween community event put on by Orange County's smallest city. Details are thin — the city posts only a tentative date, so check before making the trip.

Pumpkin Palooza at Discovery Cube OC

Santa Ana · Orange County

A weekend Halloween festival at Discovery Cube OC, 10am–5pm, with dance parties (11am, 12, 2, 3, 4), an interactive pumpkin maze, bumper cars and trick-or-treating. The ticket covers the dance party, festival and trick-or-treating, and a sensory-friendly show runs Sun Oct 18 at 9:50am. Tip: book ahead, since tickets are separate from general admission.

Treats in the Streets (Old Towne Orange)

Orange · Orange County

Orange Plaza Traditions closes the streets around the historic Plaza for a safe, walkable trick-or-treat night with local businesses and nonprofits handing out candy, plus Halloween games and activities. It is a Thursday-evening event, so it works after school. Tip: park in the structure near Lemon St and Chapman Ave (public lots can charge fees) and arrive by 4pm before the crowds peak around sunset.

Santa Tour by Fire Engine (Villa Park)

Villa Park · Orange County

Santa and city council elves ride an OCFA fire engine with stops throughout Villa Park, handing out candy canes, hearing children's wishes and posing for family photos. The city posts a route map with stop times. Tip: check the new route stop times on the map before heading out.

Jerome Recreation Center Spooktacular

Santa Ana · Orange County

Free, all-ages Halloween fun at Jerome Recreation Center (726 S Center St) with a costume contest, haunted house, performances and resource booths. Tip: it runs mid-afternoon, so it suits younger kids who can't stay out late.

Breakfast with Santa (Lake Elsinore Diamond)

Lake Elsinore · Inland Empire

A morning breakfast with Santa in the Diamond Taproom at Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive. Tip: confirm on the city page whether registration or tickets are needed before you go.

HealthyLE Santa Dash

Lake Elsinore · Inland Empire

A holiday fun run starting at the Lake Elsinore Levee at Diamond Stadium. Tip: wear a Santa suit or holiday costume, and check the city page for registration and kids' distances.

Wildomar Fall Family Fun Fair

Wildomar · Inland Empire

The city's evening fall festival at Marna O'Brien Park. The city calendar lists only the date, time and venue so far. Tip: it starts at 7pm, later than most Halloween-season kids' events, so check the city page for activity details before you plan around bedtimes.

Wildomar Breakfast with Santa

Wildomar · Inland Empire

A Saturday-morning breakfast with Santa at Marna O'Brien Park, listed on the city calendar for 8-11am. Tip: the city page has no ticket details yet, so confirm whether tickets or a reservation are needed before you go.

Anaheim Ducks Kids' Sock Sundays & Día de Muertos Night (Honda Center)

Anaheim · Orange County

The first 1,000 children age 12 and under at select Sunday home games, starting with the Oct 4 home opener vs. Florida, receive kids' socks. The Nov 1 game is a Día de Muertos celebration with a Wild Wing sugar skull giveaway for up to 5,000 fans. Tip: arrive at gate opening to make sure your kids are among the first 1,000.

Trail & Treats: Halloween Hike (Yorba Linda)

Yorba Linda · Orange County

A not-so-scary Halloween walk on the trail at Travis Ranch Youth Park with game booths along the way and plenty of photo spots. One registration covers up to five people in your household, and hike times are offered every 15 minutes from 9 to 11am. Tip: register ahead on the city's recreation site and pick an early slot with toddlers.

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort

Anaheim · Orange County

A family-friendly seasonal celebration at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure with Halloween decor, themed attractions and treats, running through Oct 31, 2026 (Disney's official dates are Aug 21 to Oct 31). Tip: midweek visits are the lightest, and the separately ticketed Oogie Boogie Bash nights are a different event.

Family ART Experience (Yorba Linda)

Yorba Linda · Orange County

Monthly family craft workshops at the Cultural Arts Center, with three time slots each Saturday (9, 10:15 and 11:30am). One registration per family covers up to five participants. Tip: the 9am slot is the easiest for younger kids; the city lists the October project as Pasta Mosaic and November as Fall Leaf Craft.

Museum of Riverside Fossil Day

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free, family-friendly National Fossil Day talk at La Sierra Library about what fossils are and what they tell us. Tip: it is a weekday afternoon event, and kids who like dinosaurs will enjoy it most.

Placentia Trunk or Treat

Placentia · Orange County

The city hosts its annual trunk-or-treat at the Placentia Civic Center on the official city calendar. The early 3:30pm start suits young trick-or-treaters. Tip: go right at 3:30 for the shortest candy lines, and check the city's Notify Me alerts for extra details.

Jack O'Lantern Jamboree (Garden Grove)

Garden Grove · Orange County

The city's annual pumpkin party at Atlantis Play Center has a pumpkin patch, reptile show, crafts, obstacle courses, face painting and carnival games; children 2 to 10 get a goody bag and pumpkin. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, Oct 6, pre-registration is required and there are no ticket sales at the door. Tip: costumes are encouraged and food (kettle corn, shaved ice) is sold on site, so buy tickets the first week.

Kids' Day In: Friendsgiving (Yorba Linda)

Yorba Linda · Orange County

A no-school-day program for ages 6 to 12 with themed crafts, games, sports, a movie and a pizza lunch at the Thomas Lasorda Jr. Field House. Handy for the Monday before Thanksgiving week. Tip: register through the city's recreation portal before it fills.

Riverside Trunk or Treat at La Sierra Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free Halloween trunk-or-treat for all ages at La Sierra Park with decorated car trunks and activities. Tip: costumes are encouraged; arrive early for the best candy.

Riverside Sensory with Santa at Bourns Youth Innovation Center

Riverside · Inland Empire

A Santa visit designed for children and families of all abilities, with sensory supports, hands-on crafts and quiet, low-pressure exploration at your own pace. Tip: comfort items and communication devices are welcome.

Eek!Vale Halloween Festival

Eastvale · Inland Empire

Eastvale's biggest Halloween night has trunk-or-treat, a kids' costume contest, live entertainment, carnival-style games, a pumpkin patch, a community ofrenda and the city's well-known haunted tour, all at 13200 Citrus Street. Tip: the haunted maze is the scary part, so do the trunk-or-treat and pumpkin patch first with little kids and go early in the evening.

Eastvale Sunset Cinema Drive-In (Toy Story 5 & Pirates of the Caribbean)

Eastvale · Inland Empire

The season finale of the city's drive-in series screens Toy Story 5 followed by Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, watched from your car at 13200 Citrus Street. Tickets are through Eventbrite. Tip: bring pillows and blankets for the second feature, which is a later-night PG-13.

Westminster Halloween Spooktacular

Westminster · Orange County

Trunk or Treat, games, food and a movie night at the Westminster Civic Center. Tip: trick-or-treating starts at 4:30pm, so go early for the best candy and the shortest lines, then stay for the movie.

Westminster Breakfast with Santa

Westminster · Orange County

The city's holiday breakfast with Santa. Registration opens in September, and the city page gives no price or time yet. Tip: register early since city Santa breakfasts typically fill.

Dark in the Park (Murrieta)

Murrieta · Inland Empire

The city's free Halloween celebration at Town Square Park & Amphitheater, with the Monster Mash House Band, a laser light show and local food vendors. Costumes are encouraged. Tip: bring a blanket for the amphitheater lawn and stay for the laser show at dark.

Donuts with Santa (Murrieta)

Murrieta · Inland Empire

Free donuts for the first 500 kids, a Santa visit and pet adoptions from Animal Friends of the Valleys at Town Square Park. Entry asks for one non-perishable food or pet item per child. Tip: the donuts are first come, first served, so arrive at 9am sharp.

Riverside Spooky Spooktacular Festival at Hunt Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free festival at Hunt Park with themed trick-or-treat stations along wooded paths. Tip: wear comfortable shoes, since the stations are spread across the park.

Riverside Breakfast with Santa at Hunt Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A hands-on holiday morning with activity sessions at 9, 10 and 11am: make a take-home gift at the elf workstation, an edible craft, and a photo in Santa's Cozy Corner. Tip: choose a session time when you register.

Riverside Ghoul's Night Out at Bryant Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free Halloween-night event at Bryant Park with ghostly games and activities for families. Tip: it ends at 7pm, so pair it with neighborhood trick-or-treating afterward.

OktoBOOfest (Fullerton Night Market)

Fullerton · Orange County

The Downtown Fullerton Night Market gets a spooky twist with vendors, food, a kids' corner, trick-or-treating, entertainment and contests at the Downtown Plaza (125 E Wilshire Ave). The city page does not list hours; the regular market runs 4:30–8:30pm. Tip: wear a costume, and park in the downtown structures.

Stanton Christmas Tree Lighting

Stanton · Orange County

Stanton's annual holiday tree lighting, listed among the city's recurring community events alongside its Easter egg hunt and summer Movies Under the Stars. A short evening event rather than a full festival.

Perris Halloween Harvest Festival / Trunk or Treat

Perris · Inland Empire

The City of Perris lists a Halloween Harvest Festival with trunk-or-treat starting at 5pm on Friday, Oct 16. Venue and activities aren't shown on the calendar summary. Tip: call the city (951-943-6100) or open the calendar entry for the venue before heading out.

Perris Breakfast with Santa

Perris · Inland Empire

The city lists a 9am Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec 19. Tip: the calendar summary doesn't show price or venue, so check the entry or call 951-943-6100 to see if reservations are needed.

Riverside Planes and Treats

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free evening at Riverside Airport where kids trick-or-treat along the runway among ghostly planes, with vendors, live music and food. Tip: bring a flashlight since the airfield is dark after sunset.

Riverside Halloween Carnival at Villegas Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free evening of trick-or-treating and ghostly games at Villegas Park. Tip: go right at 6pm to beat lines at the game booths.

Boo-tastic Halloween Party (Adventure City)

Stanton · Orange County

A 10-night kid-scaled Halloween party with 11 rides, a free Trick-or-Treat Street, the Cosmic Vortex tunnel, a Halloween-themed Express Train, a scavenger hunt, free glow accessories, a Halloween light show and a dance party. Costumes are optional. Tip: the park recommends buying online early because nights are expected to sell out.

Riverside Boo Bash in The Crest

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free family Halloween party at Orange Terrace Park with candy, crafts and costume-friendly activities. Tip: costumes are encouraged, and it's a good fit for younger children.

Trot for a Cause 5K (Menifee)

Menifee · Inland Empire

A 5K at Central Park with inflatables, color zones, obstacles, a fun zone, food vendors and health and fitness resources. Tip: the fun zone makes it a good pick for families who want more than just the run.

Stanton Halloween Festival

Stanton · Orange County

The city's annual festival at Stanton Central Park is open to ghosts and goblins of all ages, with games, entertainment, costume contests and food booths. The city describes its annual events as free. Tip: bring a trick-or-treat bag and arrive early, since the costume contests are a highlight for younger kids.

Movies Under the Stars: A Christmas Carol (Brea)

Brea · Orange County

A holiday movie night at the Brea Civic & Cultural Center, listed on the city's official calendar. Dress warmly, since December evenings on the lawn get cold. Tip: bring blankets and hot cocoa in a thermos, and arrive early for the best sightlines.

Riverside Halloween Carnival at Nichols Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

A free Halloween carnival at Nichols Park with trick-or-treating, games and activities. Tip: it's a weeknight, so arrive around 5pm to finish before bedtime.

Menifee Fall Festival

Menifee · Inland Empire

Vendor booths, live entertainment, community performances, costume contests and trick-or-treating at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee campus. Tip: dress kids in costume and bring a bag for the trick-or-treating stops.

Chino Halloween Spooktacular

Chino · Inland Empire

A city Halloween celebration for all ages with candy and games at Ruben S. Ayala Park (Fields 11-13). Tip: the city page lists no cost, so call 909-334-3250 to confirm. Halloween night falls on this Saturday.

Chino Hills Trick or Treat at The Shoppes

Chino Hills · Inland Empire

A city-run Halloween event with free candy, craft stations, a photo booth and games while supplies last. There is a costume contest with prizes. Tip: it is only two hours, so arrive at 3pm before the candy runs out.

The Great Escape: Halloween Escape Room

Cypress · Orange County

A city-run Halloween escape room at the Cypress Community Center. The 10am and 11:30am slots are open to all ages, and separate slots cover 7th–8th and 9th–12th graders. Tip: pre-registration is required and there are no refunds.

Candy Caneland & Craft Faire

Buena Park · Orange County

Buena Park's 55-year-old holiday craft fair at the Ehlers Event Center — over 100 artisan booths, nonprofit food and game booths, a snow slide, entertainment and Santa. A free shuttle runs from Peak Park Pool; on-site parking is limited.

Chino Youth Christmas Parade and Fair

Chino · Inland Empire

A city-run holiday parade built around youth entries and a decorated-entry competition, running to the Chino Civic Center, followed by a free fair and carnival at City Hall with rides, food and photos with Santa.

Old Town Temecula Halloween Carnival & Trick-or-Treating

Temecula · Inland Empire

Carnival games, costume contests and trick-or-treating at the Civic Center Quad and Town Square Park, with participating Old Town shops handing out candy. Tip: arrive right at 5:30pm, since the kid-sized crowds and parking around Main Street build fast once it gets dark.

The Wizard of Oz (Temecula Valley Players)

Temecula · Inland Empire

Temecula Valley Players stage L. Frank Baum's classic at Old Town Temecula Community Theater (42051 Main Street), with the iconic musical score from the MGM film. It follows Dorothy's journey from Kansas to Oz. Tip: Pick a 2pm weekend matinee for younger kids and walk Old Town Front Street before the show.

State Street Ballet: The Jungle Book

Temecula · Inland Empire

The Santa Barbara-based State Street Ballet presents a dazzling adaptation of Kipling's classic tale with powerful choreography, an original score and unforgettable characters, at Old Town Temecula Community Theater. Tip: The student ticket price of $15 makes this a good first ballet for school-age kids; the show starts at 7:30pm, so plan a late-ish evening.

Santa's Arrival at Pennypickle's Workshop

Temecula · Inland Empire

Old Town welcomes Santa to his cottage at Pennypickle's Workshop to open the holiday season. After opening night he takes visits on weekends through Dec 20. Tip: weekend visits run only 3 hours a day, so go early in the window for shorter lines.

MemorialCare Trunk or Treat (Los Alamitos)

Los Alamitos · Orange County

Little Cottonwood Park hosts a pumpkin patch sponsored by Southland Credit Union, spooky games, a costume contest, a train ride and vendors handing out candy, per the city's Fall 2026 recreation brochure. Tip: the event runs after school and into the evening, so bring a flashlight for the walk back to your car.

Riverside Snow Day at Bordwell Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

100+ tons of real snow, crafts and food vendors at Bordwell Park. Tip: sledding sessions go on sale Oct 19 and sell out, so buy early.

Mini Monster's Bash (Children's Museum at La Habra)

La Habra · Orange County

The museum becomes a trick-or-treat trail with candy stations, Halloween crafts and games, and a live Mad Science show at 6pm. Every guest ages 2 and up, including adults, needs a ticket, and advance registration is required because space is limited and it is not included with regular admission. Tip: general sales open Monday, Sept 21, so book early.

Sensory-Friendly Sundays (Children's Museum at La Habra)

La Habra · Orange County

A low-crowd, low-noise, dimmer-light session for children with autism, sensory processing differences and other special needs and their companions. The museum offers a social story on its site to prepare kids. Tip: read the social story with your child beforehand.

$5 Sunday Play Days (Children's Museum at La Habra)

La Habra · Orange County

The museum drops admission to $5 for full access to its hands-on exhibits, including the Dino Dig Site and vintage carousel, on select Sundays. Tip: these are popular community-rate days, so book timed tickets online and go right at 1pm.

Moreno Valley Fun Color Run

Moreno Valley · Inland Empire

An untimed 2-mile color run that starts at the Civic Center Amphitheater, with color-powder stations, a goodie bag, event shirt, medal and a closing color toss at 10:45am. Walkers, strollers and leashed dogs are welcome and kids 3-11 have their own price. Tip: there is no day-of registration, so sign up online before Nov 12 and wear clothes you're happy to stain.

Riverside Halloween Spooktacular at Reid Park

Riverside · Inland Empire

An all-ages evening at Reid Park with Halloween treats and community activities. Tip: this runs the same evening as Planes and Treats, so choose one for young kids.

Diamond Bar Halloween Party

Diamond Bar · Los Angeles

A scare-free city Halloween celebration at Pantera Park for families with young children and dogs: games, photo stations, costume contests for people and pets, and dozens of vendor stations for trick-or-treating. Tip: kids ages 2–8 can get a free goodie bag, but only 800 exist and you must register online (Activity Code 2878) between Sept 21 and Oct 23.

La Mirada Floating Pumpkin Patch

La Mirada · Los Angeles

Families swim in the 25-yard pool at Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center to pick a floating pumpkin, then decorate it at a craft station; the fee covers the pumpkin, crafts, treats and photo ops. Tip: swimsuits are required, and you must pre-register for a session.

Hawaiian Gardens Halloween Program

Hawaiian Gardens · Los Angeles

The city's Recreation & Community Services 2026 special events list has a Halloween Program on 10/31 at the C. Robert Lee Activity Center (21815 Pioneer Blvd). Time and activities are not published. Tip: call the city recreation office to confirm the hours before you go.

La Mirada Halloweenfest

La Mirada · Los Angeles

The city's annual Halloween event at the historic Neff Estate, described as great for all ages including pets, with a haunted maze, costume contest, carnival-style games, crafts and a trick-or-treat area. Tip: the haunted maze may be intense for little ones, so head to the games and trick-or-treat area first.

Dog Man The Musical (Cerritos Center)

Cerritos · Los Angeles

Two Saturday shows of the stage musical adapted from Dav Pilkey's Dog Man books at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (18000 Park Plaza Dr). Tip: prices are not posted on the CCPA calendar, so check the box office (562-916-8500) and pick the 11am show for younger kids.

Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Got the Moves! (Cerritos Center)

Cerritos · Los Angeles

A touring Sesame Street Live show with two Saturday performances at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. Tip: choose the 2pm show for toddlers and preschoolers, and check the box office (562-916-8500) for ticket prices.

Ontario Halloween Costume Contest & Trunk or Treat

Ontario · Inland Empire

A free all-ages trunk-or-treat and costume contest at Ontario City Hall. Every child gets a trick-or-treat bag and participation ribbon, plus light refreshments. Tip: the window is five hours long, so arrive mid-afternoon to skip the after-work rush.

5K Reindeer Run & Rudolph's Dash

Ontario · Inland Empire

A family-friendly holiday fun run on Euclid Avenue near C Street, benefiting Ontario-Montclair Promise Scholars. All ages can take part. Tip: the city page gives no start times for the 5K versus the kids' dash, so call 909-395-2020 to confirm before you go. (Coordinates are approximate, at downtown Euclid.)

Ontario Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Ontario · Inland Empire

Ontario Town Square kicks off the season with cookie decorating, letters to Santa, community performances and Santa photos, ending with the tree lighting. Tip: it is a weeknight event, so go straight after school for the crafts before the crowd builds.

Belmont Shore Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest

Long Beach · Los Angeles

About 50 artists draw large chalk works on the 2nd Street sidewalks, hosted by the Community Action Team nonprofit. Kids can watch the pictures take shape all day. Tip: the event listing still carries older-year description text, so confirm the date with the Belmont Shore Business Association if you are traveling in.

Trick-or-Treat on 2nd Street (Belmont Shore)

Long Beach · Los Angeles

Kids trick-or-treat storefront to storefront along 2nd Street at shops displaying a jack-o'-lantern sign. There is a photo booth in front of Chase Bank. Tip: candy runs out as businesses close, so go right at 4pm.

Fontana The Campout at Mary Vagle Nature Center

Fontana · Inland Empire

An overnight family campout at the Mary Vagle Nature Center, running from 4pm Saturday to 8am Sunday. Tip: this is a sleepover event, so check the city page for registration and the gear list, and expect it to fill.

Walnut Mostly Ghostly (Trunk-or-Treat & Movie Night)

Walnut · Los Angeles

The city's Halloween event at Suzanne Park (625 Suzanne Rd) with games, trunk-or-treat and a costume contest, then a Casper movie night in the park from 8 to 10pm. Tip: bring lawn chairs for the movie, and call the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200 if you want to decorate a trunk.

Walnut Family Festival: Winter Wonderland

Walnut · Los Angeles

A city winter festival at Suzanne Park with live bands, vendor booths, food trucks and community performances (free), plus a wristband for games, sledding, Santa, bounce houses and a snow play area. Tip: buy the $10 presale wristband to save $5, and note the rain date is Sat, Jan 9, 2027.

Artesia Halloween Spooktacular & Trunk or Treat

Artesia · Los Angeles

An annual trunk-or-treat at Artesia Park & Albert O. Little Community Center (18750 Clarkdale Ave) with music, candy, food trucks, laser tag and decorated trunks. Costume contest divisions run from baby/toddler to adult, plus family-theme and pet divisions. Tip: pick the baby/toddler division if you have little ones so they compete with kids their own size.

Moreno Valley Holiday Snow Day

Moreno Valley · Inland Empire

Trucked-in snow play at the Civic Center Amphitheater with a tot lot for ages 5 and under and sled runs for 6-12, plus free jumpers, games and crafts. The city tree lighting follows at 5:45pm.

Pumpkin & Marigold Fall Festival at Mellano Farm Stand

Oceanside · San Diego

Pick out a pumpkin, wander through rows of marigolds and try a corn maze at Mellano Farm Stand (5750 N River Rd) on October weekends, per Visit Oceanside's 2026 Halloween guide. Tip: go early on a weekend morning and check the farm's page for maze and hayride pricing.

Howloween Costume Dog Pawty

Ontario · Inland Empire

Costumed dogs and their kids meet at Schimmel Dog Park for puppy games and pet-friendly vendors. Tip: bring water and a leash, and go early before the late-morning warmth.

Haunted Sunset Market (Oceanside)

Oceanside · San Diego

Oceanside's weekly Thursday Sunset Market turns Halloween-themed on Pier View Way at Coast Highway, with trick-or-treating, a costume parade and costume contests, per Visit Oceanside's 2026 guide. Tip: MainStreet Oceanside's page shows no 2026 details yet, so confirm times; in past years trick-or-treating was for kids 12 and under with the costume parade around 6pm.

Artesia Community Holiday Party

Artesia · Los Angeles

An evening of holiday music, food and a visit from Santa at AJ Padelford Park & North Artesia Community Center (11870 169th St). Artesia children 12 and under can get a free toy if they register in advance while supplies last. Tip: register your kids ahead of time to get the toy.

Holly Jolly Holiday (Montclair)

Montclair · Inland Empire

A sock skating rink, snow sledding, craft vendors and food trucks, with the tree lighting at 6pm. After it come free Santa photos, cocoa and cookies, and letters to Santa (6:30-8:30pm, while supplies last). Tip: snow play needs a waiver signed on the day, and kids should wear socks for the skating. (Coordinates are approximate for Alma Hofman Park and the Youth Center.)

Dashing Through Montclair (Santa's sleigh tour)

Montclair · Inland Empire

Santa and Mrs. Claus tour Montclair's neighborhoods by sleigh, on a route that changes each year. Tip: the route and toy-donation spots go up on the city page by December 1. It is canceled in bad weather. (Coordinates are the city centroid.)

Montclair Halloween Spooktacular

Montclair · Inland Empire

Trick-or-treating, kids' crafts, carnival games, an inflatable haunted maze and a haunted train ride at Montclair Place. The costume contest starts at 6:30pm in age groups 0-6 and 7-12, plus a family category. Tip: get there before 6:30pm to sign up for the contest.

Arturo Sanchez Sr. Halloween Parade (41st)

Norwalk · Los Angeles

Norwalk's family Halloween parade with costumes and marching bands, from Norwalk Blvd & Excelsior Dr to Sanchez Elementary. Tip: watch near the Sanchez Elementary end for a shorter walk with little kids.

Norwalk Halloween Festival

Norwalk · Los Angeles

Game booths with candy, costume contests, live music, food trucks and crafts at Norwalk Park. Tip: costume contests run in several age categories, so arrive early to sign up.

Upland Scary-A-Faire

Upland · Inland Empire

A free, all-ages Halloween celebration in Historic Downtown Upland with trick-or-treating, games and music. Tip: come at 4pm when lines are shortest and before the crowds thicken after dark.

Spooktacular (Rancho Cucamonga)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

A free city trunk-or-treat with carnival games and activities at the RC Sports Center. The $10 wristband adds the Fun Zone (games, crafts, Silent Disco). Tip: the trunk-or-treat is free, so buy the wristband only if the kids want the extra games.

Lakewood Halloween Carnivals

Lakewood · Los Angeles

Free themed carnivals at eight city parks (Biscailuz, Bloomfield, Bolivar, Boyar, Del Valle, Mayfair, Palms, San Martin), each with a different theme, game booths and candy; haunted houses at Bolivar, Del Valle and San Martin. Tip: Mayfair has inflatables for a fee; pick the park whose theme matches your kid's costume.

Santa Fe Springs Halloween Carnival & Lantern Tours

Santa Fe Springs · Los Angeles

The city's Special Events page lists a Halloween Carnival and Lantern Tours at Heritage Park (12100 Mora Dr) on Saturday, Oct 24; a library notice describes Lantern Tours as spooky fun on Oct 23–24 from 7 to 11pm. No detail page is posted yet, so confirm times and cost. Tip: the lantern tours run after dark, so bring flashlights and check the age suitability first.

The Nutcracker (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

Weekend matinee and afternoon Nutcracker performances on the city's calendar. Tip: pick the noon show for younger children. (Coordinates are approximate for the Cultural Center.)

Santa's Little Helpers (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

A family musical about four elves at Santa's workshop, with comedy, singalongs and dancing. Tip: book through the Lewis Family Playhouse box office at 909-477-2752. (Coordinates are approximate for the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.)

James and the Giant Peach (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

Two matinee performances of the Roald Dahl musical. Tip: matinees work best for young school-age kids. (Coordinates are approximate.)

Peter Pan the Musical (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

Weekend afternoon and evening performances over two March weekends. Tip: the 1pm shows suit younger kids. (Coordinates are approximate.)

Cinderella the Ballet (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

Two weekend performances of a full-length family ballet. Tip: the Sunday 2pm show is the easiest for little ones. (Coordinates are approximate.)

The Perondi's Stunt Dog Experience (Lewis Family Playhouse)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

A stunt-dog show on the city's calendar that works for all ages. Tip: book early, since dog acts sell quickly. (Coordinates are approximate.)

Old Town La Verne Halloween Trick-or-Treat

La Verne · Los Angeles

Old Town merchants host a safe, afternoon candy walk for kids around Mainiero Square. It is a daylight option for toddlers who can't stay up for evening trick-or-treating.

Snow Much Fun Day (Rancho Cucamonga)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

Real snow play and sledding at Red Hill Community Park, plus holiday crafts, local vendors and a Santa photo. Tip: wristbands can be bought online in advance or at two city locations, which avoids the line on the day.

Scarium Family Night at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach · Los Angeles

A kid-friendly Halloween night with a spooky scavenger hunt, trick-or-treating through the exhibits with goodie bags, a DJ and vampire magician shows. Costumes are encouraged, but full-face masks, toy weapons and flashlights are not allowed. Tip: an adult 18+ must supervise, and tickets are separate from daytime admission.

Autism Families Night at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach · Los Angeles

A quieter evening at the Aquarium for families with adults or children on the autism spectrum. Tickets go on sale Oct 5, 2026 at 9am PT. Tip: buy the moment they open, because this evening sells out.

STEAM Fest at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach · Los Angeles

A morning of science, technology, engineering, art and math displays from partner organizations, plus a jumbo coloring project. Tip: it ends at 1pm, so arrive at opening and do the STEAM booths first.

Halloween in the Village (Carlsbad)

Carlsbad · San Diego

Safe business-to-business trick-or-treating across Carlsbad Village with candy stops marked by a candy-corn icon, a costume contest at Village Faire, and crafts and games at the Boys & Girls Clubs. Pumpkin candy buckets go to the first 250 kids at CalRes Homes (2691 State St). Tip: grab your bucket first thing at 11am because they run out.

Upland Monster Mash-Up Movie Night

Upland · Inland Empire

The city's 4th annual Halloween movie night at Magnolia Park is free and open to all ages. Tip: bring blankets or low chairs and arrive by 5pm for a good spot before the movie starts after dark.

Uptown Whittier Halloween Capers

Whittier · Los Angeles

The Whittier Uptown Association's Halloween event at the grass area on Greenleaf Ave (6724 Greenleaf Ave). The listing gives only the date, hours and place, so confirm the activities with the association. Tip: it is an early-evening event, so come in costume around 4pm for the lightest crowds.

Floating Pumpkin Patch (Rialto)

Rialto · Inland Empire

Kids dive for pumpkins in the Tom Sawyer pool. There are also carnival games, a family fun maze, crafts, food vendors and raffles. Tip: the city's calendar list shows a different time than the event page (2-6pm versus 4-7pm), so confirm before you go.

Fontana Pumpkins in the Park

Fontana · Inland Empire

The city's community-center Halloween afternoon runs at three sites at once: Cypress Center, Don Day Center and Jessie Turner Center. Tip: pick the center closest to you rather than driving between them, since all three run the same 2-5pm window.

Breakfast with Santa (Rancho Cucamonga)

Rancho Cucamonga · Inland Empire

A seated breakfast at Central Park with holiday crafts, letters to Santa, photos and a treat to take home for the reindeer. Tip: tickets go on sale in early October and this kind of event tends to sell out, so buy the day they open.

Fontana Arts presents Disney's Aladdin Jr.

Fontana · Inland Empire

A youth-cast production of Disney's Aladdin Jr. at Steelworkers' Auditorium, with four performances over the weekend. Tip: the 2pm Saturday and Sunday shows are the easiest fit for younger kids.

La Verne Trunk-or-Treat

La Verne · Los Angeles

The 6th annual free event at the Community Center, with kids 12 and under trick-or-treating from decorated vehicles and booths, a DJ, vendors and Halloween activities. Dogs are not allowed. Go early, because the trunk lines are longest right after 5pm.

Santa Fe Springs Floating Pumpkin Patch

Santa Fe Springs · Los Angeles

The city's Special Events table lists a Floating Pumpkin Patch at the Aquatic Center on October 31. Times, price and registration are not published yet. Tip: swim-in pumpkin patches usually need pre-registration, so check the city page for sign-up.

West Covina Festival of Frights

West Covina · Los Angeles

A city Halloween festival in Historic Downtown on S. Glendora Ave. The city lists only date, time and place so far, so confirm the program and whether the frights suit younger kids before going. Daylight (4-6pm) is the friendlier window for small children.

San Dimas Halloween Spooktacular

San Dimas · Los Angeles

New in Downtown San Dimas this year: a free trunk-or-treat trail (Candy on Elm Street), costume contests by age group, food vendors and the downtown farmers market. Food is extra. Arrive around 5:30 for the shortest trunk lines.

Fright Night in Vista

Vista · San Diego

The 5th annual downtown Vista Halloween night has trick-or-treating at booths along Main Street, costume contests, a haunted trail tractor ride and fire and sheriff rigs to explore. Tip: costume contests run 5:30 for ages 5 and under, 6:00 for ages 6+ and families, and 6:30 for pets. The AVO Playhouse haunted house is not for the faint of heart, so preview it before bringing little ones.

Rialto Halloween Hi-Jinks

Rialto · Inland Empire

Free trick-or-treating, food vendors, costume contests and scare mazes at the Civic Center. Tip: buy wristbands in advance to save $2 per child.

Boo! Bark! & Boo! Bash (Covina)

Covina · Los Angeles

The city's Halloween afternoon for the whole family at Covina Park, with inflatables, games, crafts and food vendors, a Dog Costume Contest at 2:30pm and a spooky storytime at the library (234 N. Second Ave) from 12:30 to 2pm. Tip: dog contest registration runs Oct 1–21, and the storytime is a low-key way to start with younger kids.

Science Saturday: The Science of Engineering (Western Science Center)

Hemet · Inland Empire

A National STEAM Day event exploring different engineering fields with building challenges on the museum's piazza. Museum exhibits cost extra. Tip: Science Saturdays run the first Saturday of each month, September through May, but only Oct and Nov are confirmed so far.

La Verne Winter Wonderland

La Verne · Los Angeles

The 27th annual event at Heritage Park has real-snow play lands, two snow runs, crafts, cocoa and a treat at Mrs. Claus' Cozy Kitchen, and Santa at the gazebo. Kids should wear mittens, gloves, boots and jackets; sliding saucers are provided. Register before Nov 30 to save $2 per child.

Upland Turkey Trot 5K & 1K Kid's Dash

Upland · Inland Empire

The city's 19th annual Thanksgiving-morning run at San Antonio Park has a 1K Kid's Dash at 7:30am and the 5K at 8am, open to all ages. Tip: sign the little ones up for the 1K and let the adults run the 5K right after.

Glendora Pumpkin Festival (33rd Annual)

Glendora · Los Angeles

A pumpkin patch, photo spots, food vendors, a beer garden and history-themed activities for the whole family at Centennial Heritage Park (725 E. Mauna Loa Ave). Admission is $3 with the youngest kids free (the city lists under 2 on the event blurb and under 3 on the details box). Tip: parking is limited, so use the free shuttle from City Hall.

Fontana Pictures with Santa

Fontana · Inland Empire

Free Santa meet-and-greets with crafts, candy, music and letters to Santa: Friday 5-7pm at Jessie Turner Center, and Saturday 10am-noon at both Heritage Center and Don Day Center. Tip: bring your own camera or phone for photos.

Fontana Halloween Howl (Dog Park Costume Party)

Fontana · Inland Empire

A Halloween party for dogs and their families at the Fontana Park Dog Park. Tip: costumes for pups and kids alike are the point; keep dogs leashed outside the fenced area and bring water.

Fontana Spooky Splash: Halloween Dive-In Movie

Fontana · Inland Empire

A Halloween dive-in movie night at the Fontana Park Aquatic Center, 6-9pm on the city's events page. Tip: bring towels and a warm layer since October evenings cool off quickly by the water, and check the city page for the movie title and pricing.

Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND (Carlsbad Marathon weekend)

Carlsbad · San Diego

The kids' run on Carlsbad Marathon weekend, held at LEGOLAND, the day before the Sunday Jan 17, 2027 marathon, half marathon and 5K. Tip: registration details and start times are on the race site; sign up early because kids' races fill.

Glendora Halloween Movie in the Park

Glendora · Los Angeles

A free spooky movie night at the Larry R. Glenn Bandshell in Finkbiner Park (181 N. Cullen Ave), with pre-show activities before the feature, Monster Hour. Tip: arrive early for the pre-movie activities and bring blankets or lawn chairs and a jacket.

Halloween STEMebration at Battleship IOWA

San Pedro · Los Angeles

The museum's annual free Halloween evening, with science-themed family activities on board the historic battleship. Cruise-ship traffic can crowd the lot, so allow extra parking time or use street parking. Tip: the event calendar lists 6-8:30pm but the description text says 6-10pm and looks like carried-over copy, so confirm the hours before you go.

Holiday Family Overnight at Battleship IOWA

San Pedro · Los Angeles

A holiday-season family overnight aboard the battleship, with limited spaces. It falls on the same evening as Holidays by the Sea downtown, though that event's 2026 date is not yet announced. Tip: it is a pricey outing for a family, so book early and confirm age rules by phone at 877-446-9261.

Sea Scare! Monsters of Myth at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

San Pedro · Los Angeles

A one-night family Halloween party at the aquarium, with a quest to recover Poseidon's stolen trident, trick-or-treating, games, crafts, a live DJ, a costume contest (8pm) and a family-friendly haunted house. Food trucks open at 5pm and members get early entry at 6pm. Tip: the aquarium says it sells out, so buy tickets online in advance.

Carson Halloween Carnival

Carson · Los Angeles

The City of Carson's Halloween carnival at the Carson Event Center, 801 E Carson St. Tip: it starts at 5pm on a Saturday night, so wear costumes and arrive early for the games.

Pumpkin Plunge (Alga Norte Aquatic Center)

Carlsbad · San Diego

A Halloween pool party at Alga Norte Aquatic Center with pool games, prizes, floating obstacles, a bounce house, lawn games and a Floating Pumpkin Patch where every child lassos and keeps a pumpkin; the splash pad is open for little ones. Tip: pick up wristbands the week before to skip lines, and only pool noodles and Coast Guard-approved flotation are allowed.

Rosemead Trunk or Treat

Rosemead · Los Angeles

The city's Halloween Trunk or Treat, listed on its 2026 Special Events calendar for Saturday, Oct 31. The 2025 edition ran 5:30–8:30pm at the Jess Gonzalez Sports Complex (8471 Klingerman) with costume contests, so the pin is placed there; confirm the 2026 time and venue. Tip: call (626) 569-2160 to confirm before you go.

Holiday at the Rancho (Leo Carrillo Ranch)

Carlsbad · San Diego

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is lit with holiday lights for a family evening that often includes cookie decorating, crafts, a snowball area, face painting, train rides, an outdoor holiday movie and Santa photos. The city says schedule and ticket details are posted as the date approaches. Tip: check the city page or call 442-339-2843 for tickets before you go.

Rosemead Pumpkin Patch

Rosemead · Los Angeles

A city pumpkin patch listed on the Rosemead Parks & Recreation Special Events calendar for Saturday, Oct 17. Hours, venue and cost are not yet published (the pin is placed at the Rosemead Community Recreation Center as a placeholder). Tip: call (626) 569-2160 for details before you go.

Duarte Halloween Howl

Duarte · Los Angeles

A city Halloween event listed on the Duarte calendar for Saturday, Oct 31 at 5pm. Venue and program were not readable from the calendar view (the pin is at City Hall as a placeholder). Tip: confirm the venue and activities with the city.

Duarte Snow Nite

Duarte · Los Angeles

A city holiday snow event listed on the Duarte calendar for Sunday, Dec 6 at 5pm. Only the title and time were readable, so confirm the venue and any fee (the pin is at City Hall as a placeholder). Tip: pack gloves and a change of socks for snow play.

Haunting'ton Park Halloween Event

Huntington Park · Los Angeles

The city's Halloween event at Salt Lake Park (3401 E. Florence Ave), which the flyer lists as trick-or-treat, games, train rides, a pumpkin patch, a costume contest and a haunted maze. The date and time appear on a flyer image on the city page. Tip: check the flyer for what the haunted maze is like before bringing very young kids.

Monrovia Spring Egg Hunt

Monrovia · Los Angeles

Age-staggered egg hunts at Recreation Park (3-year-olds at 10:30, then every 15 minutes up to ages 11-16 at 12:30, plus a 12:45 parent-guided hunt for all ages). There are also booths, face painting and photos with the Spring Bunny. Registration opens at 9am and you bring your own basket, so plan to be there before your child's age slot.

Monrovia Halloween Spooktacular & Trick-or-Treat Bash

Monrovia · Los Angeles

Library Park hosts activities and a costume contest, and Old Town merchants hand out treats along a short trick-or-treat stroll. Costume contest registration opens on site at 3pm, so arrive right at the start.

Safe Trick-or-Treat on Coast Highway 101

Encinitas · San Diego

Downtown Encinitas merchants hand out candy along South Coast Highway 101 on Halloween evening, with live music in the courtyards.

San Gabriel Fall Fun Festival

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

The city's fall festival at the Mission Playhouse (320 S. Mission Dr) on the Friday before Halloween. The calendar listing gives only the date, time and venue, so check the city page for the activity lineup. Tip: it runs in the evening after dark, so bring a jacket and a flashlight for younger trick-or-treaters.

San Gabriel Police Department Open House

San Gabriel · Los Angeles

The city's first family-friendly police open house at 625 S. Del Mar Ave, with station tours, live demonstrations, free hot dogs and refreshments, and a chance to meet officers. Tip: RSVP ahead because the city says space may be limited, and go early for the demonstrations if you have little ones.

Pumpkin Patch & Fall Fun Fest at Santa Anita Park

Arcadia · Los Angeles

Santa Anita Park's page lists the Infield (Center Fountain) event on Saturdays and Sundays Oct 24, 25, 31 and Nov 1, with gates at 11am (10am on Nov 1). The Starter Pack includes an inflatable jumper and straw maze wristband, one ride or face painting, and a painted pumpkin, and parking at Gate 6 off Colorado Place is free. Tip: Buy the early-bird pack before Oct 15 to save about $10 per pack.

Beaumont Trunk or Treat

Beaumont · Inland Empire

A supervised Halloween-night trunk-or-treat at Beaumont Sports Park (1692 Beaumont Ave), with candy from decorated vehicles as an alternative to door-to-door. Tip: arrive early in the 5-8pm window, since candy at popular trunks goes fast.

Beaumont Monster Mash

Beaumont · Inland Empire

The city's annual Halloween celebration at the Albert A. Chatigny Sr. Community Recreation Center, with carnival games, an inflatable maze, food vendors, a rock climbing wall, a reptile show and a petting zoo. Tip: it is a daytime event, so kids can wear costumes without staying out late.

Trick-or-Treat in the Garden (LA Arboretum)

Arcadia · Los Angeles

A self-guided, not-scary trick-or-treat trail with discovery tables of live cockroaches, snakes and spiders. Kids get a bag, one edible treat (not traditional candy) and nature-based surprises. Timed entry every 30 minutes from 4 to 7pm. Bring a flashlight (required) and layers, and strollers and wagons are welcome.

Yucaipa Turkey Trot 5K & 1-Mile Run

Yucaipa · Inland Empire

The Healthy Yucaipa Committee's 5th annual Thanksgiving-morning run at Yucaipa Community Park has a 1-mile option that works well for younger kids, with a race shirt, finisher's medal and trophies for top finishers in age groups including 10 & under. Tip: early registration ends Oct 31 and is $5 cheaper; pick up your packet at 6:30am.

The Nutcracker (Encinitas Ballet)

Encinitas · San Diego

The city's Encinitas Ballet dancers perform The Nutcracker at the San Dieguito Academy Performing Arts Center (800 Santa Fe Dr). The 1pm shows suit younger children better than the 5pm. Tip: buy tickets ahead and arrive 30 minutes early since seating for these community productions fills.

Día de los Muertos Family Festival (Catalina Museum)

Avalon · Los Angeles

The Catalina Museum for Art & History hosts a Día de los Muertos festival with a kids' art project, food vendors, and live music and dance. Tip: the 2025 edition ran in the evening, so plan an overnight stay.

Nov 1 comes from the Catalina Museum and Catalina tourism listings; the time, cost and lineup for 2026 were not confirmed.

Avalon Fall Carnival

Avalon · Los Angeles

The City of Avalon lists the Fall Carnival on Crescent Avenue (Front Street) for Friday, October 16, 2026, 5-8pm, and it is free. The city describes classic games, seasonal treats and community fun with the harbor as the backdrop. Tip: It is a Friday evening, so plan an overnight stay or check the last boat back to the mainland.

Avalon Halloween Parade & Party (Nightmare on Front Street)

Avalon · Los Angeles

A family costume parade down Crescent Ave, starting from Old Ben Park on Pebbly Beach Rd at 4pm, with an after-party at the Wrigley Stage. Tip: the last ferries back leave early evening, so book a hotel or an evening return before committing.

Oct 31 is confirmed by lovecatalina.com and the Avalon city page (which still showed the 2025 edition); the 2026 program was not yet posted.

Movie in the Park: Monster House (Cardiff)

Encinitas · San Diego

The city's fall Movie in the Park shows the animated Monster House at Glen Park (2149 Orinda Dr) in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, with pre-show fun before dusk. Bring your own chairs, blankets and food. Tip: the movie starts at dusk, which is early in late October, so arrive around 5pm to claim grass.

Riviera Village Halloween Trick or Treat

Redondo Beach · Los Angeles

Catalina Avenue is closed to cars (Avenue I to Elena Street) while shops hand out candy outdoors, and a lot of South Bay families make it a tradition. Restaurants along the street make it easy to combine with dinner. Tip: candy runs only until about 6pm while supplies last, so go early.

Inglewood Halloween Haunted House at Darby Park

Inglewood · Los Angeles

A city-run haunted house at Darby Park on both evenings of Halloween weekend. The city's listing gives no age guidance, so scare level is unknown. Tip: go on the earlier side and call the city recreation office to check whether it suits little kids.

EXPO Center Halloween Festival

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A kid-focused Halloween festival at the city's EXPO Center in Exposition Park, which in past years has featured a haunted maze, costume contest, game booths, inflatables, music and candy. Date and hours are from the Exposition Park calendar. Tip: EXPO Center is at 3980 Bill Robertson Lane, and the Metro E Line's Expo Park/USC stop is the easiest way in.

Solana Beach Fire Department Open House

Solana Beach · San Diego

Open house at the Solana Beach fire station (500 Lomas Santa Fe Dr) with this year's Fire Prevention theme, lithium-ion battery safety at home. It falls on Halloween morning, so it pairs well with an afternoon of trick-or-treating. Tip: kids in costume are welcome, and getting there early avoids the midday crowd.

Santa's Sleigh Ride (Solana Beach)

Solana Beach · San Diego

Santa rides through Solana Beach neighborhoods with Fire, Sheriff and Marine Safety crews, starting and ending at the Solana Beach Fire Station (500 Lomas Santa Fe Dr). The city posts an estimated-time map so you can catch him near your street. Tip: stay on the sidewalk as he passes and check the map for your street's time.

DTLA Halloween Festival for Kids

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A Halloween-night festival at Grand Hope Park (ASU California Center Grand) for ages 2–8: trick-or-treat trail, character meet-and-greets, puppet and magic shows, face painting and a DJ dance party. Tickets include a hot dog meal. Tip: buy ahead and use the Metro A/E line to 7th St/Metro Center.

LA Phil Symphonies for Youth: Saint-Saens' Carnival of the Animals

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A one-hour LA Phil concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall for ages 5-11 and their families, featuring Saint-Saens' whimsical suite played by a live orchestra alongside a new PBS KIDS animated special. Pre-concert art and sound activities start at 10am, an hour before the 11am show. Tip: arrive for the 10am activities, which are hands-on and free for ticketholders, and pick either of the two Saturdays since each program plays twice.

LA Phil Symphonies for Youth: Beethoven's Fifth

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A one-hour LA Phil concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall for ages 5-11 and their families, featuring Beethoven's famous Fifth Symphony, told as the story behind the most famous symphony of all time. Pre-concert art and sound activities start at 10am, an hour before the 11am show. Tip: arrive for the 10am activities, which are hands-on and free for ticketholders, and pick either of the two Saturdays since each program plays twice.

LA Phil Symphonies for Youth: Carlos Simon's Dreaming Together

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A one-hour LA Phil concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall for ages 5-11 and their families, featuring Carlos Simon's Dreaming Together, a program for young listeners (details on the LA Phil page). Pre-concert art and sound activities start at 10am, an hour before the 11am show. Tip: arrive for the 10am activities, which are hands-on and free for ticketholders, and pick either of the two Saturdays since each program plays twice.

NightTales: An Illuminated Museum Experience (NHM)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A holiday-season, indoor-outdoor after-dark walk through the Natural History Museum and its gardens, with glowing installations, cinematic projections and artwork by Maggie West. It runs on select nights only, and only parts of the museum and gardens are open during the event. Tip: NightTales sells parking in the museum car park at checkout, so add it when you buy tickets rather than hunting for a spot in Exposition Park.

Comic Arts & Literacy Expo at NHM (CALE)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A free celebration of reading and comic art presented with A Place Called Home, with an art market, giveaways and activities in the NHM Commons plaza and theater for South LA youth and families. Date is from the Exposition Park official calendar; the museum site still shows the 2026 edition. Tip: the Commons events are free but the main galleries need a general admission ticket, and the Metro E Line stops right at Expo Park/USC.

Earth Day Festival at the Natural History Museum

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

NHM's annual Earth Day festival in the Nature Gardens with live music, hands-on activities and up-close encounters with behind-the-scenes museum collections. Date is from the Exposition Park official calendar. Tip: gardens events are outdoors, so bring sunscreen and a hat and start in the gardens before the museum halls fill up.

Bug Fair 2027 (41st Annual) at NHM

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

NHM's two-day festival celebrating insects and other multi-legged critters, with live-animal encounters, hands-on activities and exhibitors selling bug collections and gear. Dates are from the Exposition Park official calendar; the museum's own page currently shows the 2026 edition. Tip: the 2026 Bug Fair sold out its timed tickets, so book as soon as the museum releases 2027 tickets.

Pride in Bloom at NHM

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

An all-ages Pride celebration at NHM with a drag musical about natural history, a rainbow scavenger hunt and craft stations, co-created with Drag Arts Lab. The event is free in the NHM Commons plaza and theater. Date is from the Exposition Park official calendar. Tip: theater shows are first come, first served, so get to the Commons early for a seat.

LA Kids Run (LA Marathon Weekend)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A half-kilometer point-to-point course recommended for kids 3-8 that starts at the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon start line at Dodger Stadium and ends near the LA 5K finish line. Waves start every 5 minutes from 9:45am, and it is the final event in the LA Kids Run Challenge Medal. Tip: register early and pair it with the LA 5K the same morning, since both finish at Dodger Stadium.

Manhattan Beach Family Halloween Carnival

Manhattan Beach · Los Angeles

The City's Parks and Recreation family Halloween carnival at Manhattan Heights Park (1600 Manhattan Beach Blvd). Only the date, hours and location are posted on the city's special events page. Tip: call (310) 802-5448 for costs and what to expect.

Family Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop (Manhattan Beach)

Manhattan Beach · Los Angeles

The 8th annual family gingerbread workshop for ages 2 and up at Manhattan Heights Park; the fee includes one gingerbread house, frosting, candy and a pancake breakfast. Additional family members pay $10-11 each. Tip: pre-registration is required, and if you cannot stay, you can call the morning of and pick up a kit to take home between 9 and 11am.

40th Annual Holiday Crafts with Santa (Manhattan Beach)

Manhattan Beach · Los Angeles

A family craft session at the Manhattan Heights Park Community Center with handmade ornaments, a spaghetti dinner, treats, hot cocoa and a visit from Santa; kids and parents are invited to wear ugly sweaters. Tip: pre-registration is required, and the Saturday session includes dinner while Sunday is a morning slot.

Inglewood Harvest Festival

Inglewood · Los Angeles

The City of Inglewood's fall community festival at City Hall's South Mall. The city has run a similar family Halloween festival there in past years, with pumpkin decorating, games and a costume parade. Tip: the 2026 listing gives no activity details, so check the city calendar the week before you go.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater: Hallowe'en Spooktacular

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

An hour-long, family-friendly Halloween puppet revue with more than 100 marionettes, at the theater's Highland Park home. The show is intended for all ages, and extra weekday and weekend evening showtimes are added in October. Tip: a sensory-friendly showtime runs Sat, Oct 10 at 10:30am, so book the specific showtime ahead.

Halloween Party at Kidspace

Pasadena · Los Angeles

A daytime Halloween party for little ones who would rather be in pajamas by nightfall, with costume parades at 11am, 1pm and 3pm and treats and activities from 10:30am to 2pm. Included with admission. Tip: parades run at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, so aim for the 10:30am start and let kids come in costume.

Halloween at Kidspace

Pasadena · Los Angeles

Kidspace's month-plus Halloween Bash has daily costume parades, a trike ride through a spooky house, a Witch's Kitchen potion station and a monster-making workshop. It is included with regular museum admission. Tip: parades run at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, so plan your visit around one and let kids come in costume.

Pumpkin Station at the Del Mar Fairgrounds

Del Mar · San Diego

A pumpkin patch in the Fairgrounds' East Parking Lot with a swing ride, a Ferris wheel, a train ride and other activities for kids of all ages. Tip: parking and admission are free and only the rides cost extra, so buy a ride package if you have several kids; Fri-Sat hours run until 9pm, which is easier on hot afternoons.

El Segundo Halloween Frolic

El Segundo · Los Angeles

El Segundo's family Halloween event, described by the city as featuring a costume contest, pumpkin contest, bouncers and food trucks. The city calendar lists the date but not the time. Tip: call Rec & Parks at 310-524-2700 for the schedule and location, and combine it with downtown Main Street trick-or-treating.

El Segundo Breakfast with Santa

El Segundo · Los Angeles

El Segundo Recreation & Parks' annual Breakfast with Santa. The city calendar lists a 9am start but no cost or venue. Tip: contact Rec & Parks at 310-524-2700 well before the date to ask about registration and cost.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Autumn Festival

Escondido · San Diego

Weekends in October at the Safari Park bring a country-themed festival with scarecrow performers, live music, a walk-through corn-maze-style 'A-MAZE-ing Autumn Adventure' (daily), and an evening lantern show at 6:45pm. Tip: the park's Kids Free promotion runs Oct 1-31, so a paying adult brings kids in free; arrive at opening to see animals before the entertainment starts at 1pm.

Griffith Observatory Public Star Party (Oct 17)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Once a month the Observatory lawn fills with dozens of telescopes run by local astronomy groups, so families can look at the Sun in the afternoon and the Moon, planets and deep-sky objects after dark. It is billed as a chance for the whole family and admission is free. Tip: telescope lines are cut off so everyone finishes by 9:45pm, so arrive by late afternoon and expect heavy traffic and limited parking on the hill (use the DASH shuttle or Metro if you can).

Griffith Observatory Public Star Party (Nov 14)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Once a month the Observatory lawn fills with dozens of telescopes run by local astronomy groups, so families can look at the Sun in the afternoon and the Moon, planets and deep-sky objects after dark. It is billed as a chance for the whole family and admission is free. Tip: telescope lines are cut off so everyone finishes by 9:45pm, so arrive by late afternoon and expect heavy traffic and limited parking on the hill (use the DASH shuttle or Metro if you can).

Griffith Observatory Public Star Party (Dec 19)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Once a month the Observatory lawn fills with dozens of telescopes run by local astronomy groups, so families can look at the Sun in the afternoon and the Moon, planets and deep-sky objects after dark. It is billed as a chance for the whole family and admission is free. Tip: telescope lines are cut off so everyone finishes by 9:45pm, so arrive by late afternoon and expect heavy traffic and limited parking on the hill (use the DASH shuttle or Metro if you can).

Homeschool Day at the Petersen

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Homeschool families explore the museum at their own pace and complete a Discovery Challenge scavenger hunt through staff-led stations on each floor. Students who finish earn a small prize. Tip: sign-up is required, and the stations are staffed only during the 10am-1pm window.

STEM Night at the Petersen

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A family evening of hands-on STEM activities across all three museum floors and the Discovery Center, built on SAE lesson plans. Ages under 4 are free. Tip: Petersen Members get complimentary parking at education events, otherwise arrive early for the 6pm start to make the most of the two-hour window.

Hip & Historic Halloween

Culver City · Los Angeles

Kids in costume trick-or-treat at downtown Culver City shops and restaurants. Participating businesses display 'BOO CREW' signs, and several restaurants run family dinner specials. Tip: the three city parking structures give one hour of free parking, so park in a structure and walk the Culver Hotel area.

Little Explorers at Descanso Gardens (February)

La Cañada Flintridge · Los Angeles

Families with young children (ages 2-5) explore, play and create with arts, crafts and nature exploration each month. Little Explorers is included with admission or membership. Tip: arrive at 9:30am when the morning session starts.

Little Explorers: Eco-Painting with Nopal & Natural Pigments (Descanso Gardens)

La Cañada Flintridge · Los Angeles

The March edition of Descanso's monthly Little Explorers program for young children is themed around eco-painting with nopal and natural pigments. It runs 9:30-11:30am and is included with admission or membership. Tip: pair it with a walk through the gardens afterward.

Halloween Party: A Night at the Autry Museum

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Trick-or-treating in the Autry garden and backlot, a spooky maze, bouncy house, crafts and a Bob Baker Marionettes puppet show, with a live DJ. Free parking on site. Tip: buy tickets ahead and wear costumes you can walk a maze in.

Autry Family Fun Day: Mini Pumpkin Patch & Spooky Cartoons

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

Kids pick and decorate a real pumpkin, make pumpkin crafts, watch spooky cartoons in the theater (popcorn included) and do a gallery scavenger hunt. Tip: registration is required, so book before the weekend.

Autry Santa's Winter Wonderland

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A snow play area on the Autry backlot, photos with Santa, an ornament craft, a Candyland bouncy house and slide, treats and live music. Tip: reservations are required for everyone, so book early.

L.A. Zoo Lights

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

The LA Zoo turns into an after-dark holiday light festival with glowing sculptures, lanterns and projections designed for families. The zoo lists Nov 20 to Jan 10 with tickets 'coming soon'. Tip: buy timed tickets online early for December weekends and dress in layers because Griffith Park gets chilly after sunset.

West Hollywood Youth Halloween Carnival

West Hollywood · Los Angeles

The city's annual free Halloween carnival on the Great Lawn at Plummer Park with carnival games, arts and crafts, face painting, a trackless train, a costume showcase on the main stage and a haunted house in its third year. Children and pets are encouraged to dress up. Tip: the haunted house has scares, so preview it before bringing toddlers.

Montrose Halloween Spooktacular

Glendale · Los Angeles

Trick-or-treating and costume fun in the Montrose Shopping Park on Halloween evening. Tip: the window is only two hours, so arrive at 5pm.

Shopmontrose.com lists 'Saturday, October 31st, 5-7pm' without a year; the weekday matches 2026. Confirm before publishing.

WeHo Winter Wonderland

West Hollywood · Los Angeles

A free winter event at West Hollywood Park with an ice-skating rink, snowfall, games, crafts, music and seasonal treats. In case of rain it moves indoors to the Doheny Room at the Aquatic and Recreation Center. Tip: arrive right at 1pm to get on the rink early.

Family Fest | Lunar New Year at The Wallis

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

The Wallis invites families to celebrate the Year of the Fire Goat with lively performances, food and hands-on creative activities for all ages on its East West Bank Plaza. The campus features the colors, sounds and traditions of the Lunar New Year. Tip: fill out the RSVP form on the event page before you go.

The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Generation (The Wallis)

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

Lightwire Theatre reimagines the classic fable as a high-volt adventure for the whole family, with glowing LED puppets, immersive projections and a lively score. Tortoise and Hare are now parents searching for their children. Tip: there are two shows (11am and 2pm) in the Lovelace Studio Theater, so the morning one suits younger kids.

Family Fest | Nowruz at The Wallis

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

The Wallis welcomes spring with music, dance, hands-on activities and cultural experiences inspired by Nowruz, designed for all ages. Umbrellas and shady areas are available on the plaza. Tip: bring comfortable footwear and RSVP through the event page.

Family Fest | Pride at The Wallis

Beverly Hills · Los Angeles

A free outdoor Family Fest honoring Pride Month, with music, dance, storytelling and hands-on creative activities for all ages at East West Bank Plaza. Tip: the page does not list a start time yet, so recheck it closer to the date.

Once Upon a Hallowe'en at Old Poway Park

Poway · San Diego

The City of Poway's Halloween night at Old Poway Park has a haunted house, haunted carnival games and rides on the Poway Midland Railroad. Tip: the haunted house is the scary part, so take younger kids on the train and games first and go through the house together if they want to.

Peter and the Wolf Free Children's Concert

Burbank · Los Angeles

A roughly 30-minute orchestral performance of Prokofiev's story, where each character is played by a different instrument. It is presented by the Salit Foundation with the Burbank Public Library at the Buena Vista Branch. Short enough for preschoolers. RSVP ahead, because library rooms fill up.

Halloween Aglow at Birch Aquarium

La Jolla · San Diego

An after-hours costume night at the aquarium with trick-or-treat stations, a slime-science Boo & Goo Lab, live music and scuba divers carving pumpkins underwater. Tip: tickets went on sale Sept 23 and the event is expected to sell out, so buy ahead. Ocean-themed costumes get bonus recognition.

Burbank Halloween Carnival

Burbank · Los Angeles

Burbank Parks and Recreation lists its Halloween Carnival for Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, for ages 3-11 at $5 per child. The same page lists a free all-ages Halloween Skatefest on Friday, October 30, 6:30-9pm. Tip: the carnival is held at McCambridge Park (1515 N. Glenoaks Blvd.), and the pin is approximate.

Getty Family Festival: LA and Mexico in Focus

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A daylong free family festival at the Getty Center with mariachi, ballet folklorico, bilingual storytelling and hands-on workshops celebrating Mexican and Chicano photography in Los Angeles. Drop in anytime between 10am and 5pm. Tip: even though programs are free, the Center requires a timed-entry reservation and charges for parking, so book both ahead and use the free stroller loaner at the parking structure.

Images and Imagination: Collage Family Workshop (Getty Center)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A drop-in, all-ages bilingual collage workshop led by Kalli Arte Collective, where families cut and layer hand-printed silkscreen images inspired by photography from Mexico and Los Angeles. It takes place at the museum entrance from 11am to 3pm. Tip: the Getty Center requires a timed-entry reservation and paid parking, so book ahead and use the free tram from the parking structure.

Modern Mosaics Family Workshop (Getty Villa)

Los Angeles · Los Angeles

A drop-in, bilingual (English/Spanish) family art workshop where kids create animal mosaics inspired by the Villa's Roman mosaics, using contemporary materials and ancient techniques. It runs 11am-3pm in the Outer Peristyle. Tip: the Villa requires a timed-entry reservation and parking is paid, so book the arrival slot first and come mid-morning when the mosaic tables are quieter.

Beachside Fall Fest at Belmont Park

San Diego · San Diego

Mission Beach's oceanfront amusement park adds live music, seasonal food, character meet-and-greets and face painting on fall weekends. Every Sunday in October has a free candy quest for kids. Tip: use the Kids Free October promo code KIDSFREE with an adult wristband purchase.

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

San Diego · San Diego

SeaWorld's holiday season with festive food, live shows and seasonal decor across the park. Tip: buy tickets online ahead and go on a weekday if you can, since holiday weekends are the park's busiest.

SeaWorld Lunar New Year

San Diego · San Diego

SeaWorld's events calendar lists a one-day Lunar New Year celebration on February 6, 2027. Tip: buy tickets online ahead, and if you go this weekend, remember the Tet Festival at Liberty Station is the same weekend.

SeaWorld Mardi Gras

San Diego · San Diego

SeaWorld's calendar lists a New Orleans-style carnival on select dates from January 23 to February 21, 2027, with live music, costumes and Creole and Cajun food. The 2026 edition also had a parade, fire dancers and a tunnel of lights. Tip: only select dates run, so confirm the exact days before buying tickets.

SeaWorld Viva La Musica

San Diego · San Diego

SeaWorld describes this as a family-friendly Latin celebration with dancing, music and fiery flavors, on select dates May 7-23, 2027. Tip: weekdays are typically lighter than weekends, but only select dates run, so check the calendar.

SeaWorld Summer Spectacular

San Diego · San Diego

SeaWorld's summer season on select dates from May 28 to September 6, 2027, with live entertainment, food and drinks, and fireworks. Tip: fireworks nights draw the biggest evening crowds, so plan to stay for them and pick a weekday if you want shorter lines.

Día de los Muertos at Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

The museum's annual community celebration of Día de los Muertos, built around altars and pathways that welcome home loved ones. Hours and admission are not confirmed here. Tip: check the listing for the program and timing before you go.

OB Children's Kite Festival

San Diego · San Diego

Run by Kiwanis at Robb Field and billed as the oldest children's kite festival in the US, with kite-making demos (materials supplied), carnival rides and a craft fair. Tip: kids build their own kite on site, so there's no need to bring one.

Enchanted Halloween at Discovery Cube Los Angeles

Sylmar · Los Angeles

A month of not-scary Halloween at the science museum with a Magical Midway of carnival games, a tractor-ride harvest for little ones, mazes, pumpkin launching, a Dia de los Muertos ofrenda and magic tricks. Weekends add a costume contest at 12:45pm and trick-or-treat stations. Tip: the trick-or-treat bags and magic shows are weekends-only, so go Saturday or Sunday for the full lineup, and check the site for closure dates (the museum is closed Sat, Sep 26).

Hallow-Boo Drive Thru (Victorville)

Victorville · Inland Empire

A drive-through trunk-or-treat at City Hall. Kids stay in the car and collect treats. Tip: costume the kids up in the back seat for photos as you roll through.

Victorville Spring Festival & Egg Hunt

Victorville · Inland Empire

Age-divided egg hunts with a separate Bunny Trail for under-2s, plus a Kids Zone, seller's market, carnival games and Peter Rabbit at Hook Park. Tip: hunt tickets go on sale March 1, 2027, and registration is required for every hunt.

Santee Holiday Lighting

Santee · San Diego

The City of Santee's annual tree lighting at Santee Trolley Square, with live music, face painting, a snow sledding hill, photos with Santa and a 6:15pm tree lighting.

Halloween at the Station (Liberty Station)

San Diego · San Diego

A free daytime Halloween party on Ingram Plaza with a DJ, a Hollywood car show, inflatable obstacle courses, crafts and trick-or-treating. The costume contest has categories for ages 0-6, 7-15, groups and pets. Tip: bring a nonperishable food item, since the event collects donations for military families and veterans.

Selfies With Santa at Santee Trolley Square

Santee · San Diego

The City of Santee's free Santa photo night on the amphitheater stage near the big Christmas tree at Trolley Square. Bring your own phone or camera. Tip: it's a weeknight with no ticket, so arrive right at 4pm to skip the line, and note the Copper Line trolley stops nearby.

Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum (5th annual)

Palm Springs · Inland Empire

A winter-wonderland evening with real snow and Santa at the Air Museum. The museum's own calendar lists Dec 18-21, 6-9pm (Visit Palm Springs shows slightly different dates). Tip: buy the separate ticket in advance and bring light layers, since you will play in real snow in the desert.

Apple Valley Halloween Spooktacular

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

The Town's Halloween event is listed for Oct 24 on its 2026 Save the Date calendar, the same day as the Howl-O-Ween Dog Run. Tip: hours and venue aren't posted yet; confirm with the Town (760-240-7800) before you go.

Apple Valley Howl-O-Ween Dog Run

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

A costume-friendly fun run for people and their dogs, on the Town's official calendar for Oct 24. Tip: it falls the same day as the Halloween Spooktacular, so families with a dog can do both.

Apple Valley Turkey Run

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

The Town's Thanksgiving-season fun run, listed for Nov 21 on its 2026 calendar. Tip: hours and distances are not published yet, so check applevalley.org for kids' options before registering.

Apple Valley Gingerbread Build

Apple Valley · Inland Empire

A gingerbread-house building activity on the Town's 2026 calendar. Tip: hours and pricing aren't published yet, and it's on a Wednesday, so check for after-school times and registration.

Cathedral City Halloween Spooktacular (10th annual)

Cathedral City · Inland Empire

A free city Halloween party in front of City Hall with kids' trick-or-treating, a costume contest, bicycle giveaways and candy vendors. Tip: wear the costume, since the contest and treat-or-treat run in the same three-hour window.

Step Afrika! The Fruits of Our Labor (The Soraya Family Series)

Northridge · Los Angeles

Step Afrika! blends stepping, body percussion and contemporary dance with South African IsiPantsula and gumboot dances, turning the performers into instruments through clapping, striking and synchronized stepping. It is part of The Soraya's family series with a Family Four Pack offer. Tip: the 3pm Saturday matinee is the kid-friendly slot, and the Four Pack is the cheapest way in for a family.

YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan - Tamayura (The Soraya Family Series)

Northridge · Los Angeles

YAMATO returns to The Soraya with a new production featuring more than 40 taiko drums onstage, alternating powerful and delicate moments. It is listed in the theater's family series. Tip: pick the Saturday 3pm show for kids and look at the Family Four Pack.

El Cajon Winter Wonderland

El Cajon · San Diego

The City of El Cajon's holiday morning at Wells Park, with photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, arts and crafts and a movie in the park.

San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering (EXPO Day)

San Diego · San Diego

The organizer's site says to mark your calendar for next year's festival on March 13, 2027, a STEAM celebration with hands-on experiments, robotics demos and live science shows for pre-K through high school students. The 2026 EXPO Day at Petco Park had over 100 exhibits. Tip: the 2027 venue and hours are not posted yet, so check lovestemsd.org before you go.

Trick-or-Treating in La Mesa Village

La Mesa · San Diego

The 8th annual free Halloween trick-or-treat along La Mesa Blvd. (Grant to Acacia) at participating businesses, with stilt walkers for photos and a Howl-o-Ween pet costume contest at the Fountain Courtyard (check-in 3:30). Tip: bring your own treat bag, and if you want dinner after, book early because the village restaurants stay open.

Holiday Arts & Music Festival (Warner Park)

Woodland Hills · Los Angeles

Valley Cultural Foundation's annual holiday event at Warner Park has free photos with Santa (emailed to you), a fresh-snow play zone, kids' crafts, food trucks and music. Tip: the Santa photo line is shortest right at 1pm.

Malibu Bu Bash Halloween Carnival

Malibu · Los Angeles

The City of Malibu's Halloween carnival at Malibu Bluffs Park with a costume catwalk, carnival games with prizes, bounce houses, art activities, a food truck and spooky stories with the Malibu Library. It is for ages 2-10. Tip: pre-registration is required at malibucity.org/register, and accompanying adults do not need to register.

Malibu Breakfast with Santa

Malibu · Los Angeles

The City of Malibu's annual family Breakfast with Santa. Only the date is posted on the city's Special Events page so far. Tip: watch the city's e-notifications for registration details and the time and location.

Malibu Tiny Tot Olympics

Malibu · Los Angeles

The City of Malibu's Tiny Tot Olympics for ages 2-6, listed as an annual spring event. Only the date is posted so far. Tip: check the city's e-notifications for registration and location details.

Earth Day at Cabot's Pueblo Museum

Desert Hot Springs · Inland Empire

Free admission and tours on Earth Day at Cabot's Pueblo Museum, with a 3D watershed model, an aluminum-can recycling demo and sketching and wildlife-spotting stations. Tip: it's a hands-on morning for kids; the pueblo has stairs, so bring sturdy shoes.

Boo Bash Craft & Vendor Market

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

A Halloween-weekend craft and vendor market at The Shops at Palm Desert, held during the mall's family-friendly Halloween weekend. Tip: combine it with trick-or-treating on Saturday.

The Living Desert Spring ZooCamp

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

A three-day spring camp for kindergarten through 6th grade at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens with age-specific weekly themes like Critter Crafters, Super Species and Eco-Heroes. Registration opens February 1, 2027 through UltraCamp. Tip: Sessions fill quickly during spring break, so register the morning registration opens.

Martha's Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K (20th annual)

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

A charity 5K on El Paseo at San Pablo, benefiting Martha's Village & Kitchen. Tip: it is a walk-friendly fun run, so bring the family before the holiday meal.

Calabasas Pumpkin Festival

Calabasas · Los Angeles

A city-run festival at Juan Bautista de Anza Park tied to the city's name, which comes from the Spanish for pumpkin. Admission covers unlimited inflatable rides, live music, character encounters, contests and bug and reptile shows.

Howl-O-Ween at The Living Desert

Palm Desert · Inland Empire

A Halloween morning at the zoo with trick-or-treat stations, festive activities, animal encounters and pop-up surprises. It is included with admission. Tip: the event window is 9am to 1pm, so go early before the desert warms up.

Viva Halloween! (Newhall Community Center)

Santa Clarita · Los Angeles

The city's annual Halloween celebration at the Newhall Community Center has trick-or-treating, carnival games, mariachi and ballet folklorico. It also has a haunted house and zombie run. Tip: the haunted house and zombie run can be scary, so skip them with toddlers and enjoy the games and dancing.

Date from the City of Santa Clarita community calendar. Cost is not listed.

Gilchrist Farm Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch

Santa Clarita · Los Angeles

A working farm with a pumpkin patch, straw bale maze, wagon and pony rides, pumpkin decorating, gem mining and animal visits. Entry is free, and you pay per activity. Tip: no dogs allowed except ADA service dogs, and weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Coordinates are road-level (Bouquet Canyon Rd), not the exact farm gate at 30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd.

Lancaster Halloween Haunt

Lancaster · Los Angeles

The City of Lancaster's free annual fall family event at the Lancaster National Soccer Center (43000 30th St E), with no tickets or registration needed. Tip: it's an outdoor evening event, so bring a jacket for after sunset in the high desert.

Date and location come from search snippets of the City of Lancaster's own Halloween Haunt page. The city site blocks automated fetching, so confirm once on the page. Not to be confused with Lancaster, OH events.

Furry Fun Fest at Sesame Place San Diego