Top Free Things To Do With Kids in Los Angeles in January 2026!
- Angela Cantoni
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
January is that perfect in‑between month — when post‑holiday bills are still landing, the weather in Southern California is crisp and magical, and there’s so much FREE family fun to dive into! From grand parades and cultural festivals to creative workshops and days of community service, LA’s calendar is packed with kid‑approved, wallet‑friendly activities.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best free things to do with kids in Los Angeles in January 2026! 🎈
🌟 Why Free Family Activities in January Are a WIN
Let’s be honest, December is amazing — but January can be a stretch on the budget. That’s why this month’s lineup of free events and experiences in LA is such a gift. Whether your crew loves arts, culture, nature, celebration, or giving back, there’s something here that’ll spark joy without costing a dime.
Ready? Let’s explore!
Free Activities for Families in Los Angeles — January 2026
Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena
January 1-3, 2026
Kick off 2026 with floats, music, and magic at the iconic 137th Tournament of Roses Parade. This year’s theme is “The Magic in Teamwork,” and LA’s own Magic Johnson is the Grand Marshal!
Norwalk Arts & Sports Complex, Norwalk
January 3, 2026
Celebrate tradition with tamales, folkloric dance, crafts, and a community celebration full of warmth and color. And yes — hot chocolate is included!
California Botanic Garden, Claremont
January 4, 2026 | 8:00am – 10:00am
Enjoy a peaceful morning exploring the garden trails while spotting local birds with the Pomona Valley Bird Alliance. This walk is great for beginners and kids — plus, free admission and loaner binoculars are available. A guided tram option is offered this month with RSVP.
Richard Nixon Library & Museum, Yorba Linda
January 9, 2026
Enjoy free admission, explore presidential history, and attend a formal wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial site.
Colburn School, Downtown LA
January 10, 2026 | 11am–1:30pm
Get hands-on with creative classes in music, dance, and singing — perfect for littles ages 7 months to 7 years. Plus, meet faculty and get a sneak peek into the program.
White Point Nature Preserve, San Pedro
January 10, 2026 | 10:30am – 11:30am
Kids ages 3–10 can explore how scientists study nocturnal animals with fun, hands-on activities during this free Nature Club session at White Point. A playful intro to wildlife tracking in a beautiful coastal setting!
Getty Villa, Pacific Palisades
January 10, 2026 | 11:00am – 3:00pm
Drop in to this fragrant hands-on workshop where families can explore ancient Greek scents and make their own perfumes using spices and oils inspired by Mycenaean recipes. A fun mix of history, creativity, and sensory play!
Japanese American National Museum, Little Tokyo
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Japanese cultural activities, crafts, and lively performances that make this annual event a family fave.
Online Event
January 14, 2026
Start dreaming of the Olympics now — free registration opens for the official LA28 Ticket Draw. Time slots to buy tickets will be awarded by lottery!
Orange County School of the Arts, Santa Ana
January 17, 2026
Join the artsy fun at OCSA’s campus with performances, hands-on activities, and play spaces for kids who love creativity.
Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Long Beach
January 17, 2026
Join the 38th annual Long Beach MLK Parade and community celebration honoring Dr. King's legacy with joy, unity, and purpose.
RC Sports Center, Rancho Cucamonga
January 17 – 18, 2026
A two-day festival filled with lanterns, lion dancers, and cultural entertainment to honor the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse.
Exposition Park, Los Angeles
January 19, 2026
The Kingdom Day Parade is back and bigger than ever with Grand Marshall Cedric the Entertainer and the cast of The Neighborhood joining the celebration.
Exposition Park, Los Angeles
January 19, 2026
Join hands and hearts at this community volunteer festival where families help build Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”
Alma Reaves Woods – Watts Branch Library, Los Angeles
January 20, 2026 | 3:00pm
Kids can turn music into visual art by using paper cutouts to bring their favorite lyrics to life, inspired by Our House by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. A fun and creative afternoon at the library!
The Broad, Downtown LA
January 25, 2026
Create hands-on masterpieces inspired by Robert Therrien’s exhibition using wire, stencils, and fun materials — totally free and family-friendly.
Annenberg Community Beach House, Santa Monica
January 25, 2026
Step back into the 1920s to celebrate Marion Davies' birthday with music, dancing, and vintage fashion fun by the sea.
The Getty Center, Los Angeles
January 25, 2026 | 11:00am – 3:00pm
Drop in for a creative day at The Getty, where all ages can draw from live costumed models with guidance from guest artists. Materials are provided—just bring your imagination!
Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory, Los Angeles
January 31, 2026 | 10:00am – 12:00pm
Watch classic Saturday morning cartoons while munching on a breakfast cereal buffet at this all-ages, totally free event. Supplies are provided, and kids even get a peek into the world of animation careers!
Downtown Monterey Park
January 31 – February 1, 2026
End the month with a bang at this massive Lunar New Year celebration with five blocks of rides, booths, and festive entertainment for the whole family.
That’s a wrap! January doesn’t have to be boring OR expensive. These free things to do with kids in Los Angeles are proof that the best memories don’t cost a thing. ✨
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