July 1st—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 🤝

We went to Bacari as a family last week and I forgot how great their kids’ menu is. It’s simple but well thought out and it’s one of the few places where my kids actually come close to finishing their plate. They have a few locations (Sherman Oaks, Silverlake, West Hollywood are the ones I know of) which is great for convenience but doesn’t feel like a chain. I’ll always share a good kid-friendly food spot when I find one. Which reminds me, I need to start compiling the next city guide. Thinking it might be time for a Valley Part 2 since so many new spots have popped up.

This week, I included a few spots to watch fireworks if you’re staying in town. The 4th always feels like a kid holiday which is probably why I’ve always enjoyed it. Popsicles, pool time, The Sandlot on repeat and staying up too late to watch fireworks - the energy I’m trying to soak up this week. Have a good one & stay safe whatever you decide to do!

x Carissa

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📍 Pasadena
Friday 7/4 Check out South Pasadena’s Festival of Balloons celebration. Start off bright and early (7am!) with Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast at South Pasadena Fire Station and then head to the annual Festival of Balloons Parade from Diamond Avenue to Garfield Park. The celebration continues with games, food, a live DJ and a fireworks show starting at 9pm. (7am - 9pm)
*4th of July event

📍 Long Beach
Friday 7/4 Help the kids decorate their bikes in red, white & blue then head over to The Great American Kids Bike Parade! The 2-mile ride along the beach starts out at Bay Shore Avenue and finishes at Second Street. Helmets required and patriotic attire encouraged! (10am - 8pm)
*free 4th of July event

📍 Long Beach
Friday 7/4 Don’t miss 4th of July BBQ at Aquarium of The Pacific! Celebrate with the annual rooftop BBQ with classic 4th favorites like mini hot dogs, ribs, sliced watermelon + more! Ticket includes lunch, festivities and all-day admission. (12pm - 2pm)
*4th of July event

📍 El Segundo
Friday 7/4 City of El Segundo Recreation, Parks & Library is hosting their annual 4th of July Party kicking off at 10am Friday. Daytime events will include hula hoop contest, a water balloon toss, a watermelon + pie eating contest, a 3-legged sack race, toddler and youth races, and a diaper derby for crawlers! How cute? Fireworks show starting at 9pm. (10am - 9pm)
*4th of July event

📍 Elysian Park
Sunday 7/6 Did you know LA Dodgers have a select few games each season where kids can go down to the field and run around the bases? I did not know this until recently and it’s the cutest thing. Don’t miss Kids Run The Bases at Dodger Stadium at this Sunday’s game! Only offered at a select few Sunday afternoon games - don’t miss this one. (1:10pm)

📍 Glassell Park
Sunday 7/6 Check out Kids’ Swap-N-Bop hosted at Scribble and MAEVE Mt. Washington. Swap gently used clothes for the next size up. You’ll find gear, books, and toys. Babies and children can enjoy the DJ and the dance floor (or padded play area for tummy timers), while grown ups shop & swap. (2pm)

*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!