Southern California is a popular destination that offers an abundance of activities and events specifically geared for children and teens. Parents can locate special events through a local chamber of commerce or perform an online search for a specific theme. From arts and music to festivals and museums, there is an event to be discovered and enjoyed by children.
Los Angeles and San Diego are hosts of the annual International Children's Film Festival with venues scattered throughout the cities. These featured films from around the globe are specifically intended for children. In addition to film techniques, children will experience a diversity of traditions and cultures. Highlights include animated shorts, feature films and documentaries. Free viewings and hands-on workshops are categorized by age.
The annual California Strawberry Festival is ranked among the top in the nation. Strawberryland offers youngsters rides and attractions, such as "Jest in Time Family Fun Stage," which features jugglers, magicians and puppeteers. Interactive exhibits and contests, strawberry themed foods and beverages, along with craft booths and musical entertainment are on hand.
Tickets are purchased online, through the Oxnard Performing Arts Center box office or at the festival gates. A free park-n-ride shuttle service is available.
International Children's Film Festival
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
760-805-9510
lachildrensfilm.org
California Strawberry Festival
Strawberry Meadows of College Park
3250 South Rose Ave.
Oxnard, California 93033
strawberry-fest.org
The U.S. Open Imperial Beach Sand Castle Competition in San Diego County is the largest sand castle building event in the United States. The competition commences with a parade and fireworks off the Imperial Beach pier. The Kids 'N Kastles competition is an integral part of the competition. Children ages 12 and younger compete in a castle building competition with prizes awarded for the best sandcastle.
Sandcastle events are free to the public but contestants must register through the U.S. Open Sandcastle Committee.
The Corona del Mar State Beach Sandcastle contest is more informal but spirited. All skill levels, including children are encouraged to participate. Awards are presented with an emphasis on having fun and supporting the community.
U.S. Open Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition
1250 5th Street
Imperial Beach, CA 91932-3206
619-424-6663
Corona del Mar State Beach Sandcastle Competition
Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
1470 Jamboree Road
Newport Beach CA 92660
949-729-4400
newportbeach.com
The annual Hollywood Children's Festival of the Arts is held at Paramount Pictures. This festival offers cultural and artistic dances and performances along with workshops, such as puppet-making and creating Balinese flying angels or Chinese scrolls. The festival is free to the public with ample parking in the studio lot.
The annual Pasadena Symphony Musical Circus travels to different venues around Southern California. Children from ages three to 10 years partake in playing student-sized instruments, such as cellos and violins with the interactive "petting zoo." Afterward, children are entertained with concert performances and hands-on activities. Sponsored by the Pasadena Symphony Association, the musical circus events are free to the public.
Hollywood Children's Festival
Hollywood Arts Council
P.O. Box 931056
Hollywood, CA 90038
323-462-2355
hollywoodartscouncil.org/HACInfo.aspx?PageId=4
Pasadena Symphony and Pops
117 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 200
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-793-7172
pasadenasymphony-pops.org/education-and-community/community-engagement/musical-circus/
