Kids & family · updated hourly
Kids & family events in San Diego
89 things on Fri, Nov 6 – Thu, Nov 19, 21 free, 89 good for kids, across 30 parts of the county. Times, addresses and the tips that help you go.
Top picks
Ranked by interest, not by who paid
Friday, November 6Today · 6
Harvest Fest 2026 at Julian Farm and Orchard
10am
Julian Farm and Orchard · North County inland
This seasonal farm event features a pumpkin patch and various agricultural activities. It is a family-oriented outing.
1 tip for going
KPBS Kids Event: Molly of Denali
10am
Children's Museum of Discovery · Escondido
A children's event featuring character appearances and activities at the museum. This is perfect for younger visitors.
2 tips for going
Stars at Mission Trails
4:55pm
Kumeyaay Lake Campground · Navajo & Mission Trails
Astronomy enthusiasts gather to view the night sky through telescopes. This public stargazing event is ideal for families and anyone curious about the cosmos.
2 tips for going
Sounds of the Square Concert Series
6pm
Clairemont Town Square · Clairemont
A weekly series of outdoor concerts held at Clairemont Town Square featuring popular music tributes. This event is suitable for all ages.
1 tip for going
Courtside Card Show
6:30pm
Hoops HQ · Rancho Bernardo & Poway
This event features over 30 vendors selling sports cards, trading card games, and related collectibles. It is open to collectors of all ages.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
7pm
Casa del Prado Theatre · Downtown & Gaslamp
A stage adaptation of the classic Roald Dahl novel featuring songs from the film. This show is ideal for families and fans of the story.
3 tips for going
Saturday, November 7Tomorrow · 18
Ride the Point
7am
Liberty Station NTC Park · Point Loma & Liberty Station
A charity cycling event offering multiple distance options including a family-friendly route. The ride benefits cancer research and explores scenic areas.
2 tips for going
Shelter to Soldier Salute to Paws 5K and Gratitude Festival for Dogs Presented by Avion Law
8am
Fox Point Farms · Encinitas & Cardiff
A community event combining a 5k run with a festival dedicated to dogs and military supporters.
Shelter to Soldier Salute to Paws 5K & Gratitude Festival for Dogs
8am
Fox Point Farms · Encinitas & Cardiff
A charity fitness event featuring a 5K run and yoga to support local animal rescue efforts. Families and leashed dogs are invited to participate.
Wildlife Tracking Walk
8am
Mission Trails Regional Park East Fortuna staging area · Santee
An educational walk where participants learn to identify local wildlife tracks. These outings are led by experts and are suitable for all ages.
2 tips for going
Miles for Migraine
8:30am
Balboa Park
A charitable walk and run event supporting migraine awareness and research. Participants can engage with the local community in a festival setting.
3 tips for going
Red, White & Blue Salute
9am
SeaWorld · Pacific Beach
A military appreciation event featuring entertainment and dedicated access for service members. It is appropriate for military families and veterans.
2 tips for going
Great Big Family Play Day
9:30am
Ingram Plaza at Liberty Station · Point Loma & Liberty Station
This outdoor community gathering offers various activities for children, including arts, crafts, live entertainment, and sports zones.
2 tips for going
Red, White & Blue Salute at SeaWorld
10am
SeaWorld San Diego · Pacific Beach
This park event offers special activities and entertainment to honor veterans and active military personnel. It is designed for families and those wishing to show their support.
2 tips for going
North Park Community Fair: Shop North Park
10am
Verbatim Books · North Park & South Park
A neighborhood street fair celebrating local businesses with an all-ages and pet-friendly atmosphere.
1 tip for going
Balboa Park Horticultural Tours: Botanical Building Central Gardens
10am
Balboa Park Visitors' Center · Balboa Park
A guided educational tour of the park's central gardens focusing on regional biodiversity. It is intended for nature enthusiasts and park visitors.
3 tips for going
Sean McCole
10am
Farmer & the Seahorse · University City & UTC
Live musical performance at a coastal dining venue. It is a casual choice for patrons looking for light entertainment.
Discovery Table: Mountain Lions
10am
Mission Trails Regional Park · Navajo & Mission Trails
An interactive educational exhibit about mountain lions for visitors to the regional park. It is designed for families and children.
2 tips for going
Sunday, November 810
Red, White & Blue Salute
9am
SeaWorld · Pacific Beach
A military appreciation event featuring entertainment and dedicated access for service members. It is appropriate for military families and veterans.
2 tips for going
Kevin Ryan
10am
Farmer & the Seahorse · University City & UTC
A musical performance held at a scenic seaside restaurant location.
Sky Tonight: Weekend Edition
11am
Fleet Science Center · Balboa Park
This planetarium series offers guided tours of the solar system for stargazers. The family-oriented sessions are held monthly at a science museum.
3 tips for going
Community Market
11am
WorldBeat Center · Balboa Park
Shop for local goods including crafts, plants, and produce at this monthly community gathering. The market also offers wellness services and food.
3 tips for going
House of USA Lawn Program – Veterans Day Celebration
11am
House of USA · Downtown & Gaslamp
This local gathering honors military veterans with a special lawn program. It is suitable for individuals and families looking to observe the holiday.
2 tips for going
The Nightmare Before Christmas at Rooftop Cinema Club (pet friendly)
12pm
Porto Vista Hotel & Suites · Little Italy
This outdoor screening is suitable for families and pet owners. It offers a festive viewing experience in a rooftop setting.
2 tips for going
Native American Flute Circle
1pm
Mission Trails Regional Park · Navajo & Mission Trails
This open-mic circle features musicians playing a variety of native flutes. It is open to performers of all skill levels and casual listeners.
2 tips for going
Paint It Mariachi: A Salute to the Americas
2pm
San Diego Museum of Art · Balboa Park
An orchestra teams up with a mariachi band and folklorico dancers for a patriotic cultural celebration. This family-friendly show honors the armed forces.
3 tips for going
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
2pm
Casa del Prado Theatre · Downtown & Gaslamp
A stage adaptation of the classic Roald Dahl novel featuring songs from the film. This show is ideal for families and fans of the story.
3 tips for going
Classics 4 Kids Family Concert: A Salute to America
2pm
San Diego Museum of Art · Balboa Park
This orchestral concert features patriotic music paired with art projections from the museum collection. It is curated for visitors of all ages.
3 tips for going
Tuesday, November 102
Canine Companions Fundraiser
9:30am
Wienerschnitzel · Oceanside
A fundraiser event where a portion of restaurant sales supports an organization that provides service dogs. Attendees can meet volunteers and service dogs on-site.
Dean Ratzman Concert
6pm
Mira Mesa Library · Mira Mesa & Scripps Ranch
A multi-instrumental performance featuring piano, trumpet, and vocals covering jazz and pop hits. This show is designed for a general library audience.
Friday, November 132
Bluey's Big Play
2pm, 6pm
Balboa Theatre · Downtown & Gaslamp
A theatrical production based on the popular children's show featuring puppets and music. This performance is designed for families and young fans.
1 tip for going
Yokohama Festival
4pm
Balboa Park
A celebration of Japanese culture featuring performances, activities, and food to mark the friendship between San Diego and Yokohama.
3 tips for going
Saturday, November 1417
Guided Nature Walk
8:30am
Kumeyaay Lake Campground · Navajo & Mission Trails
Led by a trail guide, these walks explore the local riparian habitat and wildlife. They are open to all visitors and suitable for those who enjoy moderate outdoor activity.
3 tips for going
Yokohama Festival
9am
Balboa Park
A celebration of Japanese culture featuring performances, activities, and food to mark the friendship between San Diego and Yokohama.
3 tips for going
Holiday Marketplace
9am
Mission Trails Regional Park · Navajo & Mission Trails
This marketplace brings together local artists and vendors for a weekend of shopping. A portion of proceeds supports the regional park.
3 tips for going
San Diego Potters Guild Fall Patio Show and Sale
10am
Spanish Village Art Center · Balboa Park
The seasonal patio sale features the work of local ceramic artists. A welcoming event for families and art lovers.
3 tips for going
Train Song Festival
10am
Old Poway Park · Rancho Bernardo & Poway
An annual event celebrating folk music with live performances and train displays, perfect for families and train enthusiasts.
1 tip for going
Free Train Song Festival
10am
Old Poway Park · Rancho Bernardo & Poway
A folk music festival held in a historic park with local vendors, model trains, and live performances.
1 tip for going
Mike Myrdal
10am
Farmer & the Seahorse · University City & UTC
A musical performance hosted at a local restaurant and venue. It is appropriate for diners and casual visitors.
Open House
10am
La Jolla Country Day School · University City & UTC
Prospective students and their families can tour this campus, meet faculty and explore school facilities. It is aimed at parents and children considering enrollment.
Autumn Days: Dried Flowers, U-Puck Pumpkins & Veggies
10:30am
BeeWorthy Farms · Encinitas & Cardiff
A seasonal farm experience featuring a flower bar, crafting stations, and opportunities to harvest fresh produce. Ideal for families and those enjoying the autumn season.
Barrio Art Crawl Market
12pm
Mercado Del Barrio · Barrio Logan
A monthly community market featuring local art, vintage goods, live music, and kids activities.
3 tips for going
Native American Heritage Festival
1pm
Carlsbad City Library Learning Center · Carlsbad
A day dedicated to indigenous art, traditional crafts and music. It is open to the public and offers educational opportunities for families.
1 tip for going
Saturdays in the Courtyard: Left Coast Quintet
5pm
Carlsbad City Library · Carlsbad
An outdoor concert featuring a quintet honoring veterans. Rain moves the event indoors.
1 tip for going
Sunday, November 1511
Tianguis
8am
Centro Cultural de la Raza · Balboa Park
This monthly artisan market offers handmade goods, crafts, and self-care products. It features activities for families including music and creative workshops.
3 tips for going
Ocean Connectors Community Restoration Day
9am
San Diego Bay Refuge · Imperial Beach
Volunteers assist with habitat restoration by removing invasive plants and planting native species, followed by a nature walk.
Holiday Marketplace
9am
Mission Trails Regional Park · Navajo & Mission Trails
This marketplace brings together local artists and vendors for a weekend of shopping. A portion of proceeds supports the regional park.
3 tips for going
San Diego Potters Guild Fall Patio Show and Sale
10am
Spanish Village Art Center · Balboa Park
The seasonal patio sale features the work of local ceramic artists. A welcoming event for families and art lovers.
3 tips for going
Cut, Paste, Skate
11am
Mingei International Museum · Balboa Park
Visitors can participate in a drop-in zine-making workshop inspired by skate culture. This event is family-friendly and open to all skill levels.
3 tips for going
Free Holiday Makers Market
12pm
California Wild Ales · San Diego
An indoor holiday market featuring local vendors selling handmade gifts, art, and food.
2 tips for going
Moana at Rooftop Cinema Club (pet friendly)
12:45pm
Porto Vista Hotel & Suites · Downtown & Gaslamp
An outdoor screening of a family-friendly film on a hotel rooftop that welcomes dogs.
2 tips for going
Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy
1pm, 3pm
Performing Arts Workshop Encinitas · Encinitas & Cardiff
A festive tea event featuring Nutcracker characters, music, and treats for families.
1 tip for going
Manual Cinema’s Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster
3pm
Baker-Baum Concert Hall · La Jolla
This live performance uses puppetry and music to bring popular children's books to life. It is aimed at families with young children.
2 tips for going
Holiday Celebration with The Romeros
4pm
Poway Center for the Performing Arts · Rancho Bernardo & Poway
A holiday concert featuring the Poway Symphony Orchestra and a guitar quartet. This show is intended for classical music lovers and families.
Bluey's Big Play
6pm
Balboa Theatre · Downtown & Gaslamp
A theatrical production based on the popular children's show featuring puppets and music. This performance is designed for families and young fans.
1 tip for going
Tuesday, November 172
20th Annual Tree Lighting
4pm
Otay Ranch Town Center · Chula Vista east & Otay Ranch
This holiday event features a tree lighting ceremony, entertainment, and activities for children. It is designed to be a festive outing for families.
2 tips for going
20th Annual Tree Lighting at Otay Ranch Town Center
4pm
Otay Ranch Town Center · Chula Vista east & Otay Ranch
This seasonal celebration features a tree lighting ceremony and a holiday market. It is designed for families and local community members.
2 tips for going
Thursday, November 192
'¡Cómo el Grinch robó la Navidad!'
7pm
Old Globe Theatre · Balboa Park
This seasonal production brings the classic holiday story to the stage. It is a family-friendly theater experience.
3 tips for going
We The Marines
All day
Fleet Science Center · Balboa Park
Watch an informative documentary about the U.S. Marine Corps at the local science center. This film is educational and suitable for families.
3 tips for going
Ongoing
Exhibitions, theater runs and weekly regulars on during these dates. Pulled out of the daily lists so they don't repeat on every day.
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Nov 7 – Dec 19 · 7pm
Old Globe - Donald & Darlene Shiley Stage · Balboa Park
A musical stage adaptation of the classic Dr. Seuss holiday story returns to the theater for local families to enjoy.
3 tips for going
America the Beautiful
Nov 11–29 · 11am, 4pm
Fleet Science Center · Balboa Park
Watch a cinematic tribute to the landscapes and history of America presented on a large screen. This educational film is suitable for all ages.
3 tips for going
San Diego Gulls Home Game
Nov 11 – Dec 19 · 7pm
Pechanga Arena San Diego · Old Town
The professional hockey team plays a scheduled game against a conference opponent. These events are aimed at sports fans and local families.
3 tips for going
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
Nov 13 – Dec 19 · 10am
SeaWorld · Pacific Beach
A seasonal celebration featuring festive light displays, holiday-themed animal shows, and appearances by Santa Claus.
2 tips for going
A Space for All of Us
Nov 8 – Dec 20 · 10am
Museum of Us · Balboa Park
These weekly morning hours provide a calm, low-stimulation environment for families. It is specifically designed to be accessible and welcoming to everyone.
3 tips for going
Cirque Ma'Ceo
Nov 6–22 · 7pm
Del Mar Horsepark · Del Mar & Solana Beach
This circus performance combines equestrian arts and acrobatics under a tent. It is designed for families and those seeking entertainment.
1 tip for going
Community Art Workshop
Nov 12 – Dec 17 · 11am
Balboa Park
Hands-on creative sessions inspired by museum collections are available for artists of all ages. All materials are supplied for these community-focused workshops.
3 tips for going
Le Petit Chef
Nov 6 – Dec 19 · 5:30pm, 8pm
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter · Downtown & Gaslamp
This immersive dining experience combines 3D animation with a multi-course meal. It is designed to entertain families and couples looking for a unique culinary show.
1 tip for going
Every weekend
The San Diego playbook
The plays locals fall back on, whatever's on the calendar. Each one links to the full tip.
Saturday morning
Start at a farmers market. Little Italy Mercato runs every Saturday; the tip has every market by day.
What farmers markets are open in San Diego each day of the week?
Any afternoon
Balboa Park's gardens and plazas are free; pick one or two museums rather than the whole park.
Do you have to pay to get into Balboa Park?
Golden hour
Sunset from the cliffs, a pier or a hilltop. Get there 30 minutes early on weekends.
5 best places to watch the sunset in San Diego
Sunday
Brunch is the Sunday ritual. Book or go before 10am.
Where is the best brunch in San Diego, and how do you skip the wait?
If it rains
The indoor fallbacks that are actually good, by neighborhood.
6 things to do in San Diego when it rains
On a budget
The free list, with what's genuinely worth the trip.
10 free things to do in San Diego that are actually worth it
With kids
What works for toddlers vs. tweens, and what to skip.
What are the best things to do in San Diego with kids, by age?
Driving downtown Sunday
Which meters you can skip feeding on Sunday, and which you can't.
Are parking meters free on Sundays in San Diego?
How this calendar works
Every hour it re-reads the official calendars (Balboa Park's museums, San Diego Theatres, House of Blues, the Padres schedule) and the county's biggest listing calendars, then merges the same show listed in two places into one entry.
A play with three shows a day for six weeks is one listing with showtimes, not a hundred cards. Anything nobody would "go to" (city council meetings, webinars, sales seminars) is filtered out. Each listing is matched to the guides on this site that help you get there: parking, transit, free days, what the place is like.
Details change. Each listing links to its source; check it before you buy tickets or drive across the county.
Questions
How often is this calendar updated?
Every hour. A scheduled job re-reads the official calendars (Balboa Park, San Diego Theatres, House of Blues, the Padres schedule) and the main listing sites, merges duplicates, and drops anything that has ended. Each listing links to its source so you can confirm details before you go.
Why does a listing say 'time on listing'?
Some organizers publish a date but no start time. Rather than guess, we say so and link to their page.
Where do the photos come from?
From the organizer's own page or feed when they publish one. When there isn't one, you'll see a colored date tile instead of a stock photo, so a picture on this page is always of the actual event or venue.
What are the tips on each event?
Each listing is matched to the sandiego.tips guides that help you actually go: parking at that venue, getting there without a car, free days, what the place is like. They're chosen by venue and neighborhood, not by keyword stuffing.
How do I get an event added?
If it's on a venue's own calendar, the San Diego Reader or KPBS calendar, it will appear here within a few hours. Government meetings, webinars, sales seminars and similar listings are filtered out on purpose.