July 15th—here's where I'm taking my kids this week

Our free weekly email keeps you in the loop of local kid-friendly events and things to do 🤝

Now that we’re deep into summer and back to school is starting to creep in, I’m realizing how short summer break really is - although the days are looong ;)
I took the kids to Lil’ Ranchers this morning for the Tuesday event (at Leonis Adobe in Calabasas that we shared in last week’s newsletter). It was so cute and much bigger and more charming than I anticipated. The kids spent most of the time feeding the animals but they also had a scavenger hunt (with a prize at the end), different craft station areas and hands on activities, face painting, shaved ice, live music and probably a few other areas we didn’t even get to. We plan on going again next week. I’m making an effort to follow up on the events we feature to give more insight and this one definitely delivered.

If you’re still searching for activities to occupy the kids this summer, don’t sleep on Bumo’s summer programming. It’s free to sign up and I really enjoyed their concierge-style service via text. They helped me narrow a few solid options in our area for Otis. He’s in a major bug phase right now so I was excited to find HAWKS Nature Camp. It’s so up his alley.

x Carissa

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📍 Calabasas
Wednesday 7/16 Don’t miss Art in The Park hosted at Grape Arbor Park (easily one of my favorite parks in the valley - parking, on the smaller side, and they have a sand/volleyball court which is fun). July is Parks and Recreation Month and Calabasas Parks and Rec is celebrating with weekly free events all month long hosted at different parks in the city. Check out the full schedule here! (5pm)

📍 Long Beach
Saturday 7/19 Don’t miss the free Sharks at The Beach event happening at CSU - fitting timing, as one of the greatest movies ever (JAWS) just turned 50! The family-friendly annual open house is packed with lab tours, Q&As with real scientists, sharks & crafts, live marine animals, student presentations, shark lab giveaways & more. Little scientists can explore real stingray barbs under the microscope and check out the lab’s “zombie” feet - a weirdly fun demo that shows exactly what happens when someone steps on a stingray at the beach. (10am - 3pm)

📍 Mid City
Saturday 7/19 Always a fan of Petersen Auto Museum’s events and this Saturday they are hosting Little Sparks: Summer of Speed. Bring the kids to play games, create artwork, and enjoy the museum. The workshop is free with admission and best for ages 3-6. Reservations required ahead of time. They also have a Detailing Workshop for ages 12+ kicking off at the same time! (9am - 10am)

📍 Griffith Park
Sunday 7/20 It’s the 3rd Sunday of the month which means it’s Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn Public Day. The open to the public event is run by volunteer Barn Crew members who are always happy to share their knowledge and history. Often, Disney veterans and legends drop by for chats and autographs. Parking and admission are free. (11am - 3pm)

📍 Highland Park
Sunday 7/20 Join Rolling With Dads for a Dads Stroller Running Club, a 2 mile community hike every Sunday morning at LA State Historic Park. Whether you’re pushing a stroller, baby-wearing, or coming solo, you’ll meet other dads who get it. Strollers encouraged but not required. (8:30am - 10:30am)

*These aren’t ALL the family-friendly events happening this week in and around LA, just the best (IMO). We keep it short and curated—follow on IG + TT for more!

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See you next week!