Here's a deal every bookworm (and every burger-loving parent) can get behind: from October 3 to November 14, 2026, kids ages 4 to 12 can earn a FREE In-N-Out hamburger or cheeseburger for every five books or 300 minutes they read, up to three burgers each. The In-N-Out Cover to Cover reading program is free, and you sign up at a participating public library in Los Angeles or Orange County. Little ones who aren't reading yet still count, because parents can read to them. Below, we break down exactly how the program works, how to join at LA Public Library, Long Beach, and OC Public Libraries, and our tips for collecting all three burgers before the deadline. In-N-Out Cover to Cover 2026 at a Glance When: Saturday, October 3 through Saturday, November 14, 2026 Who: Kids ages 4 to 12 The goal: Read 5 books or 300 minutes The reward: An Achievement Award good for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at In-N-Out Limit: Up to 3 awards per child (15 books total) Cost: Free Where to sign up: Participating public library branches in LA County and Orange County Dates can vary slightly by library (a few LA Public Library branches started sign-ups October 1), so check your branch's event page or give them a quick call before you go. How the In-N-Out Cover to Cover Reading Program Works In-N-Out runs Cover to Cover with local libraries every year, and the rules are refreshingly simple. Your child picks up a reading log, reads, and turns in the completed log for a reward. Kids ages 4 to 12 can join. If your child isn't reading on their own yet, you can read the books aloud or read together for 300 minutes. Each time your child finishes 5 books or 300 minutes, they earn one Achievement Award for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at In-N-Out. A parent or guardian signs the reading log once the 5 books or 300 minutes are done. Each child can earn up to 3 awards during the program. Children must be present when the award is handed out at the library, and when it's used at In-N-Out. Books at your child's reading level count, and so do the stories you already read at bedtime. Libraries typically want titles (or minutes) written on the log, so keep it handy. How to Join in Los Angeles Most LA families will sign up through their local public library. Here's how the big systems are handling it this fall. Los Angeles Public Library Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 (some branches started October 1) How to join: Visit a participating branch to sign up and get a reading log Branches confirmed online include: Cahuenga, Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, North Hollywood, Robert Louis Stevenson, Van Nuys, and Woodland Hills LAPL lists the program as Cover to Cover Reading Club on individual branch calendars. Children must be present to redeem, and participants can earn up to three awards. If your neighborhood branch isn't listed, call or ask at the children's desk, since more branches may be participating. Parent tip: All LAPL branches are closed Monday, October 12, for Indigenous Peoples' Day, so plan your sign-up or award pickup around it. Long Beach Public Library Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 How to join: Pick up the official reading tracker at any Long Beach Public Library location Questions: Children's Information Desk, (562) 570-5644 Long Beach asks families to write book titles or minutes on the log along with a parent or guardian signature. Kids must be present with a parent or guardian to redeem, and award cards can be redeemed up to one week after the program ends. Other LA County Libraries Many city libraries run their own Cover to Cover programs. South Pasadena Public Library starts sign-ups October 3, and kids must be present with a parent to pick up certificates. Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is also participating, with up to 15 books logged for three certificates. If you use LA County Library, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, or Santa Monica libraries, check your branch's calendar or call ahead. Participation varies by library, and we couldn't confirm every system's 2026 plans online. How to Join in Orange County OC Public Libraries Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 How to join: Visit your local OC Public Libraries branch to sign up Branches: OC Public Libraries has 29 branches countywide, from Aliso Viejo to Westminster OC Public Libraries has a few extra rules worth knowing before you go: Only one certificate is given per visit. No certificates are issued on the day you sign up. Claim certificates at the same library where your child registered. Your child must be present with a parent or guardian at redemption. City-run libraries in Orange County (like Anaheim, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, or Placentia) operate separately from OC Public Libraries, so check their websites for their own Cover to Cover details. Step by Step: From Library Card to Cheeseburger Step 1: Call or check your library's online calendar to confirm they're participating. Step 2: Bring your child to the library to sign up and pick up a reading log. Step 3: Read 5 books or 300 minutes and write each title (or the minutes) on the log. Step 4: Sign the log as the parent or guardian. Step 5: Return to the same library with your child to collect the Achievement Award. Step 6: Bring your child to In-N-Out to enjoy the free hamburger or cheeseburger. Repeat up to two more times! Parent Tips to Earn All 3 Free Burgers Start early: Six weeks goes fast. Reading about 15 minutes a day gets you to 300 minutes in less than three weeks. Mix books and minutes: Picture books add up quickly for younger kids, while minutes work better for chapter-book readers. Count family reading: Bedtime stories and read-alouds with siblings count toward the log. Keep the log in one spot: A clipboard by the bookshelf makes it easy to jot titles before you forget. Spread out pickups: Some libraries give out only one certificate per visit, so don't wait until the last week to collect all three. Bring your child every time: Kids need to be present to receive their award at the library and to use it at In-N-Out. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway The In-N-Out Cover to Cover program is one of the easiest ways to keep kids excited about reading this fall. Sign up at a participating LA or OC library between October 3 and November 14, 2026, read 5 books or 300 minutes, and your child earns a free burger, up to three times. Our favorite part? It turns reading into a family goal, and the reward is a meal everyone in SoCal already loves. Frequently Asked Questions When is the In-N-Out Cover to Cover reading program in 2026? At LA Public Library, Long Beach Public Library, and OC Public Libraries, the 2026 fall program runs October 3 through November 14, 2026. A few branches started sign-ups slightly earlier, so check your local library's calendar for its exact dates and any award pickup deadlines. Who can join In-N-Out Cover to Cover? Children ages 4 to 12 are eligible. Kids who aren't reading on their own yet can still take part, because a parent or guardian may read five books aloud or read with them for 300 minutes. The program is free, and you sign up at a participating public library. How many free burgers can my child earn? Each child can earn up to three Achievement Awards during the program, one for every five books or 300 minutes read. That means reading 15 books (or 900 minutes) gets your child three free In-N-Out hamburgers or cheeseburgers by the end of the program. Can I sign up for In-N-Out Cover to Cover online? LA Public Library, Long Beach, and OC Public Libraries ask families to sign up in person and pick up a paper reading log. Some libraries elsewhere use the Beanstack app, so ask your branch whether online logging is available before you start tracking reading. Does my child need to be there to get the free burger? Yes. Libraries require the child to be present to receive the Achievement Award, and OC Public Libraries and Long Beach also require a parent or guardian. Bring your child along to In-N-Out when you redeem the award for a free hamburger or cheeseburger. ❤️ You May Also Like FREE Perks that Come With Your LA Public Library Card! Free Birthday Treats for Kids in LA: 55+ Freebies for 2026! Free Events Near Me: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to LA Family Fun on a Budget! 📌 Share the Love & Pin It!

Somewhere between Pokémon cards and a first crush, your little boy starts changing in ways that can catch you both off guard. Puberty is a completely normal part of growing up, and it goes a lot more smoothly when parents know what's coming and can explain it before he has to look it up on his own. Puberty in boys usually starts between ages 9 and 14, and the very first sign is one you probably won't see: the testicles quietly getting bigger. Body odor and a few underarm hairs can show up years before that. From start to finish, the whole process typically takes two to five years. If your son suddenly needs deodorant, eats like a linebacker at age 10, or cracks his voice mid-sentence, you're in good company. We dug into guidance from pediatricians and children's hospitals to map out what happens, in what order, and how to talk about it so he hears it from you first, not from a group chat. A quick note: we're family writers, not doctors. This guide is for general information, so bring any specific worries about your child to his pediatrician. Key Takeaways: Puberty in Boys at a Glance When it starts: most boys begin between ages 9 and 14. Puberty is considered early before age 9 and delayed if it hasn't started by 14. First sign: the testicles start to enlarge, followed by pubic hair and, later, the big growth spurt. What can come years earlier: body odor, oily skin and a few hairs from adrenarche, which often begins around ages 6 to 8. Biggest growth spurt: Stage 4, when some boys grow close to 4 inches in a year. How long it lasts: about two to five years. Most boys finish growing by around age 17. When Does Puberty Start for Boys? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics' HealthyChildren.org guide to delayed puberty, about 95% of boys start puberty between ages 9 and 14. Boys also tend to start about two years later than girls, which is why the tallest kids in a fifth-grade class photo are often girls. It all kicks off in the brain. The pituitary gland releases hormones that tell the testicles to make more testosterone, and that hormone drives most of the changes your son will notice over the next few years. Timing varies a lot from kid to kid. Two boys born the same month can look years apart in middle school, and both can be perfectly healthy. Doctors pay attention to the order and pace of the changes, not just his birthday. The 5 Stages of Puberty in Boys (Tanner Stages) Doctors track puberty with the Tanner scale, a five-stage system named after British pediatrician Dr. James Tanner. Your pediatrician may check it quickly during a well-child visit. Here's what each stage generally looks like, with age ranges from Cleveland Clinic's guide to the Tanner stages. Stage 1: Before Puberty Typical ages: childhood, until puberty begins No visible pubertal changes yet. Behind the scenes, the adrenal glands may already be maturing, which is why some kids get stinky armpits or oily hair well before anything else changes. Stage 2: Puberty Officially Begins Typical ages: about 9 to 14 The testicles and scrotum begin to grow, and a small amount of fine pubic hair may appear. Height picks up to roughly 2 to 2.5 inches a year. Most boys don't announce this one, so it often comes and goes without parents noticing. Stage 3: Growing Fast and Voice Cracks Typical ages: about 10 to 16 Growth continues, and hair gets darker and coarser. Height speeds up to about 2.75 to 3 inches a year, and the voice may start to crack as the voice box grows. Some boys also notice temporary swelling or tenderness under the nipples, which is common and usually goes away. Stage 4: The Big Growth Spurt Typical ages: about 11 to 16 This is the peak growth window, with some boys growing close to 4 inches in a year. Acne often shows up, body hair fills in, the voice keeps deepening, and the appetite can feel bottomless. Expect new shoe sizes and pants that are suddenly too short. Stage 5: Adult Development Typical ages: varies; most boys finish growing by about 17 Physical development is complete or nearly complete, and growth in height slows and stops. Facial hair often doesn't fill in until this stage. Every boy moves through these stages at his own speed. One may go from Stage 2 to Stage 4 in two years; another may take much longer. Both can be completely normal. What Really Happens First: The Order of Puberty Changes in Boys Puberty doesn't follow a neat checklist. Some changes start years before puberty itself, and many others overlap. Here's how the timeline actually unfolds. Body odor often comes first: body odor, oily skin and the first few underarm or pubic hairs come from the adrenal glands. This separate process, called adrenarche, usually starts around ages 6 to 8, about two years before puberty begins. Testosterone drives the rest: true puberty begins when the testicles start making more testosterone, a process called gonadarche. It kicks off at Stage 2 and powers every change through Stage 5. Wet dreams happen mid-puberty: most boys have their first ejaculation, often as a wet dream, between about 12 and 16, typically around 14. That's usually well before they finish growing. Changes overlap: voice, hair and skin changes don't arrive one at a time. Most happen together during Stages 3 and 4. Why does this matter? If body odor shows up at age 8, your son may worry that something is wrong. Knowing the real order helps you reassure him that he's right on track. Puberty Changes That Surprise Boys (and Parents) Some changes arrive with zero warning, and a little heads-up goes a long way. These are the ones worth mentioning before they happen. Body odor and sweat: puberty hormones ramp up sweat glands, and skin bacteria create the smell. A daily shower and deodorant usually solve it. Acne and oily skin: common in mid-puberty. A gentle face wash twice a day helps; ask the pediatrician if breakouts are painful or leaving marks. Voice cracks: the voice box grows and the voice deepens during Stages 3 and 4. The squeaks are temporary. Breast tissue swelling: about half of boys get temporary swelling or tenderness under one or both nipples, according to Cleveland Clinic, and it usually fades by the end of puberty. Wet dreams and surprise erections: both are normal parts of a body making more testosterone. Telling him ahead of time saves a lot of private panic. A bottomless appetite: a fast-growing body needs plenty of fuel and sleep, so expect pantry raids. Bigger feelings: mood swings, a need for more privacy, and wanting more independence often show up alongside the physical changes. How to Talk to Your Son About Puberty (Without the Cringe) Start earlier than feels necessary. KidsHealth's advice on talking about puberty suggests opening the conversation before puberty begins, since some kids start as young as 8 or 9 and many won't bring it up on their own. Our Favorite Ways to Make It Less Awkward Talk side by side, not face to face: car rides, walks and hikes take the pressure off eye contact. A loop on a Griffith Park trail or a stroll on the beach path can turn into your best conversation of the month. Go small and often: a few minutes here and there beats one big "talk." Circle back after he's had time to think. Use the real words: correct names for body parts keep the information clear and show that nothing about his body is shameful. Hand him a good book: a title like Guy Stuff: The Body Book for Boys by pediatrician Dr. Cara Natterson gives him something private to read, and you can offer to answer questions after. Say the magic sentence: "You can ask me anything, and I won't be weird about it." Then try very hard not to be weird about it. Moms, you've got this too: boys benefit from hearing from every trusted adult in their lives, not only dads. Parent tip: If you're nervous, practice out loud first. Kids are usually relieved when a parent takes the lead, even if they roll their eyes. Need a low-pressure place to start? Our list of fun things to do with teenagers in Los Angeles is full of side-by-side outings. What California Schools Teach About Puberty Under the California Healthy Youth Act, comprehensive sexual health education is required at least once in middle school and once in high school, and districts may choose to teach age-appropriate lessons earlier. According to the California Department of Education, schools must notify parents, let them review the materials, and honor written opt-out requests. Ask your child's school when puberty lessons happen and preview the materials. Then talk at home before and after, so your son hears your family's voice alongside the facts. When to Call Your Pediatrician About Puberty Most timing differences are normal, but a quick check-in is smart if: Signs start before age 9: testicular growth, pubic hair or a sudden growth spurt before 9 can signal early puberty, according to KidsHealth's guide to precocious puberty. No signs by age 14: HealthyChildren.org considers puberty delayed if it hasn't started by 14. Something seems off: he's much shorter or taller than his peers, or very worried about how his body is changing. Breast swelling doesn't fade: most cases go away on their own, but it's worth asking about if it sticks around. He's struggling emotionally: ongoing sadness, anxiety or withdrawal deserves a conversation with his doctor. CHLA Teenage and Young Adult Health Clinic Address: 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Phone: 323-361-2153 Ages: 12 to 24 Part of Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine program, this clinic offers routine medical care for teens and young adults, plus mental health counseling. It's a helpful option if your teen would benefit from a doctor who focuses on adolescents. Call ahead about appointments, hours and insurance. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Puberty in boys usually begins between 9 and 14, starts with changes you can't see, and unfolds over two to five years. Body odor may arrive years before the rest, and the biggest growth spurt usually lands in Stage 4. The most powerful thing you can do is go first. Talk early, keep it short and frequent, and let your son know no question is off-limits. A calm, informed parent turns a confusing time into a manageable one. Frequently Asked Questions What is the first sign of puberty in boys? The first true sign of puberty in boys is enlargement of the testicles, usually between ages 9 and 14, and it's easy for parents to miss. Body odor, oily skin and a few underarm hairs often show up earlier, but those come from adrenarche, a separate process that can start around ages 6 to 8. At what age do boys start puberty? Most boys start puberty between ages 9 and 14, about two years later than girls on average. Puberty that begins before age 9 is considered early, and puberty that hasn't started by age 14 is considered delayed. Both are worth discussing with your child's pediatrician. What are the 5 stages of puberty in boys? Doctors use the five Tanner stages. Stage 1 is before puberty. Stage 2 brings testicular growth and early hair. Stage 3 brings faster growth and voice cracks. Stage 4 is the peak growth spurt, with acne and a deeper voice. Stage 5 is adult development, when growth slows and stops. How long does puberty last for boys? Puberty in boys typically lasts two to five years, from the first changes to the end of growth. Most boys finish growing in height by around age 17, though timing varies. Boys who start later often finish later, and that pattern is usually normal. When should I talk to my son about puberty? Start before puberty begins, ideally around ages 8 or 9, since some boys show early signs by then. Keep it to short, frequent conversations instead of one big talk, use correct terms, and make it clear he can always come to you with questions. ❤️ You May Also Like 20 Free Mental Health Services and Resources for Youth and Their Families 65 Fun Things to Do with Teenagers in Los Angeles: The Ultimate Guide How to Handle a Disrespectful Teen with Confidence

Every fall, the kids at school start trading stories about Halloween Horror Nights: who screamed loudest, who bailed halfway through a maze, and which clown was the absolute worst. Sooner or later, one of those stories comes home with a question attached. "Can I go?" Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is Southern California's biggest scare event, and it's built for grown-ups who love horror movies. That doesn't mean every family needs a flat "no." In this guide, we cover what's happening at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026, what Universal says about age, why we'd leave the little ones at home, and how to decide whether your teen is ready, with you or with friends. What Is Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood? Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) is a separately ticketed, after-dark event at Universal Studios Hollywood. Once the sun goes down, the studio lot fills with fog, strobe lights and professional scare actors whose whole job is to make you jump. Your regular daytime park ticket does not get you in. The heart of the night is the haunted houses (fans call them mazes). Each one is a walk-through set built around a horror movie, TV series or original story, with scare actors popping out of walls, windows and hidden doors. Add outdoor scare zones, the famous Terror Tram on the backlot and a fiery stunt show, and you have a long, loud, very intense night. Halloween Horror Nights 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood: At a Glance Dates: Select nights, Thursday, September 3 – Sunday, November 1, 2026 (a record 42 nights) Remaining nights: Sept. 26–27 and 30; Oct. 1–4, 7–11, 14–18, 21–25 and 28–31; Nov. 1 Start time: 7:00 p.m. (subject to change); closing times vary by night Early Access: Select haunted houses open at 5:30 p.m. for Early Access ticket holders Location: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Age advisory: Not recommended for children under 13 Tickets: Separate ticket required; prices vary by night Here's the planning reality: weekend and late-October nights are the most popular, and prices climb as Halloween gets closer. If you're on the fence, a Thursday or Sunday earlier in October is usually the gentler choice for your wallet. You can check the current calendar and buy tickets on the official Halloween Horror Nights ticket page. The 2026 Haunted Houses Universal announced eight houses for Hollywood this year. Five are shared with the Orlando event and three are Hollywood's own. Knowing what each one is based on is the single best way to judge whether it's right for your teen, since most of the source material is rated R. Sinners Based on the Academy Award-winning Warner Bros. film. If your teen hasn't seen the movie, know that the house leans into vampires, blood and mature themes. Stranger Things Inspired by the fifth season of the Netflix series. This is the one most teens will beg to do first, and it's the most familiar entry point for fans who aren't hard-core horror viewers. Hellraiser Drawn from the first three films, with Pinhead and the Cenobites. It's gory, disturbing and firmly in adults-only movie territory. We'd skip it for younger teens. Evil Dead Burn Based on the sixth film in the Evil Dead franchise. Expect possession, screaming and plenty of fake blood. Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness A heavy-metal tribute house built around the legacy of the rock star. It's loud, theatrical and a bit more "concert from the underworld" than pure gore. Killer Klowns From Outer Space The 1980s cult classic returns to Hollywood with murderous alien clowns in a candy-colored funhouse. It's campy and silly, but clowns are a hard no for some kids. KILLceañera: Music by SLASH An all-original house that turns a quinceañera into a revenge story, with an original Spanish-guitar score by SLASH. It continues Universal's tradition of houses rooted in Latin American myths and legends. Dead, Deader, Deadest An original house set inside an abandoned funeral home where terrible things once happened. The setting alone makes it one of the creepier options. Parent tip: Watch trailers together first. If a movie trailer is too much for your teen, the house will be too, because the house puts them inside the scene with actors inches away. Terror Tram, Scare Zones and Shows Terror Tram starring Art the Clown The Terror Tram drops you on the Universal backlot and lets you walk through it on foot. This year's host is Art the Clown from the Terrifier movies, which are some of the goriest horror films of recent years. He hijacks the tram for a twisted Christmas party set to new music from metal band Ice Nine Kills. Art also roams the park, so he can pop up anywhere. Scare Zones Scare zones are outdoor areas packed with roaming scare actors, and they're the part of HHN you can't avoid on your way between houses. This year's lineup includes Hackerz (chainsaw killers), Fortnitemares (based on Fortnite's Halloween in-game event, a big hit with teens), El Circo de la Muerte (a sinister 1930s Mexican circus), Blood Bog (moss monsters) and Murder of Crowz. Nikki from the horror film Obsession also turns up on the streets. The Purge: Dangerous Waters This stunt show returns to the WaterWorld venue with fire, explosions and a fight-to-survive storyline. It's a good place to sit down and catch your breath between houses. Rides That Stay Open Select attractions run during the event, including Revenge of the Mummy, Transformers: The Ride-3D and The Simpsons Ride. Super Nintendo World is also open during HHN, but access depends on your ticket type, so check your ticket terms before you promise anyone a Mario Kart run. Death Eaters roam The Wizarding World of Harry Potter starting in the early evening. If you have a thrill-seeker at home, our guide to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift covers the park's newest coaster, which is included with some HHN ticket types. Halloween Horror Nights Age Limit: What Universal Actually Says There is no minimum age to enter Halloween Horror Nights. Universal's official warning says the event "may be too intense for young children" and is not recommended for children under 13. That's advice, not a gate rule, and the call is left to parents. A few official rules matter for kids and teens, too. Costumes are subject to Universal's costume policy and costume masks are not allowed, so your teen can't show up disguised as Ghostface. Your ticket may require photo ID at the gate. Alcohol is served to guests 21 and older with a valid ID only. We also looked for a written chaperone rule for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and did not find one in Universal's published event information. That can change, especially after a busy season, so check the official Halloween Horror Nights page right before you buy a ticket for a teen going without a parent. Why We Don't Recommend Taking Little Kids We love a spooky season as much as anyone, but HHN isn't "Halloween, a little scarier." It's a horror-movie event for adults, and it's hard on young kids in ways that aren't obvious until you're inside. Scare actors don't pull punches for small guests. They don't touch you, but they're trained to startle everyone who walks by. A 7-year-old gets the same chainsaw roar as a 30-year-old. There's no easy way out. Once you're inside a house, you're moving through it with the crowd. Carrying a terrified, crying child through a dark maze is no fun for anyone. The content is R-rated. Most of the houses are based on R-rated movies, with gore, dismemberment and disturbing imagery your child can't unsee. It's a sensory overload. Strobe lights, thick fog, loud music and sudden noises go on for hours. Kids with sensory sensitivities, anxiety or seizure concerns can really struggle. It runs very late. The event starts at 7 p.m. and lines for popular houses can stretch past an hour, so most families are out well past bedtime. Nightmares are real. A few minutes of screaming fun can turn into weeks of bad dreams and a kid who won't sleep with the lights off. If your younger kids want spooky fun, there are dozens of better fits across LA. Check out our list of family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles for daytime parties, trick-or-treat trails and pumpkin patches built for them. Is Your Teen Ready for Halloween Horror Nights? Turning 13 doesn't flip a switch. Some 13-year-olds will have the night of their lives, and some 16-year-olds will want to go home after one house. Ask yourself a few honest questions: Does your teen watch R-rated horror movies and enjoy them, without trouble sleeping afterward? Have they done a haunted house or scare maze before, and how did it go? Can they handle a late night and still function the next day? Are they going because they want to, or because their friends are going? Can they tell you "I'm done" without feeling embarrassed? If you answered yes to most of these, your teen may be ready. If you hesitated on more than one, a year of waiting (or a tamer haunt first) is a perfectly good plan. Tips for Parents Going With Teens Pick Your Night Wisely Earlier dates and weeknights tend to be less crowded than Friday, Saturday and the final week of October. Fewer people means shorter lines and a calmer night, which helps a first-timer. Consider Early Access or Express Early Access gets you into select houses starting at 5:30 p.m., before the full crowd arrives. Universal Express lets you skip the regular line once per house. Both cost more, but they can turn a late, exhausting night into a manageable one. Start With the Tamer Houses Build your house order like a warm-up. Start with something campy like Killer Klowns or a familiar favorite like Stranger Things, and save the gorier houses for later, if at all. Your teen can always skip one. Set a Code Word Agree on a word that means "I need a break, no questions asked." It gives your teen an easy exit without losing face in front of friends. Stores, restrooms and restaurants are good spots to regroup. Eat Before the Scares Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, so plan to buy dinner inside or eat before you go. The event has its own themed menu, and the Halloween Horror Nights Dining Pass returns for 2026 if you'd rather pay once for several meals and snacks. Should You Let Your Teen Go to Halloween Horror Nights With Friends? This is the question most parents are really asking. There's no single right answer, but here's how we'd think it through. Why It Can Work For an older teen with a good track record, a night at HHN with friends can be a fun rite of passage. It's a ticketed event with security screening, lots of staff and a well-lit park between houses. If your teen is responsible, keeps their phone charged and sticks with the group, it can be a great night out. Why You Might Wait The event runs late, crowds are huge, and adults are drinking in the park. Teen groups also tend to split up when one friend wants to do "just one more house" and another wants to leave. For a younger teen, especially a first-timer, we'd strongly suggest going together first so you know how they handle it. Ground Rules If You Say Yes Share locations on everyone's phones and pack a portable charger. Set a check-in time and a firm pickup time and place. Agree on a meeting spot in case the group gets separated. Nobody leaves the park or wanders off alone. Bring photo ID and keep tickets on their own phone. Know who's driving and how they're getting home. Our honest take: for 13- and 14-year-olds, go with them. For 15- and 16-year-olds, it depends on the teen and the friends. For 17 and up with a solid plan, it's usually a reasonable yes. Tickets, Parking and What to Bring Ticket options include General Admission, Early Access, Universal Express, the R.I.P. Tour (a guided VIP experience), Day/Night and After 2 P.M. Day/Night tickets, plus the Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass for repeat visits. Prices change by date, so compare nights on the official ticket page. The event runs rain or shine, and there are no refunds. Parking isn't included with HHN tickets. Universal offers several parking tiers, and current prices are on its Directions and Parking page. The Metro B Line's Universal City/Studio City station is another option if you'd rather skip the parking structures. Pack light: comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket (the backlot gets chilly after dark), a phone charger and photo ID. Leave costume masks at home. If you want to see what else is happening at the park this season, our guide to Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood covers the family-friendly Grinchmas season that follows HHN. Family-Friendly Halloween Alternatives for Kids Under 13 If your crew is too young for HHN, you've got plenty of spooky options that still feel special. Here are a few we love: Halloween Time at Disneyland: Haunted Mansion Holiday, the Main Street pumpkin and Oogie Boogie Bash. Boo at the L.A. Zoo: daytime trick-or-treating with the animals. Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND California: a colorful, not-scary Halloween party for younger kids. The best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating: a classic Halloween night out. Halloween movies for a family movie night: all the spooky vibes, none of the chainsaws. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic night out for horror-loving adults and teens who are truly ready for it, but it's not a kids' Halloween event. Universal doesn't recommend it for anyone under 13, and after looking at this year's R-rated lineup, we agree. For teens, the best first visit is usually one with a parent, on a less crowded night, starting with the tamer houses. Once you've seen how they handle it, you'll know whether a friends-only night next year makes sense. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is there an age limit for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood? No. There is no minimum age to enter, but Universal says the event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for kids under 13. Parents make the final call. 2. Can a 12-year-old go to Halloween Horror Nights? Technically yes, since there's no age gate. We don't recommend it, though. The houses are based mostly on R-rated films, and the scares, gore, strobe lights and late hours are a lot for kids under 13. 3. What is the least scary house at Halloween Horror Nights 2026? No house is truly mild, but Killer Klowns From Outer Space is the campiest, and Stranger Things is the most familiar for teens who know the show. Hellraiser and the Terror Tram starring Art the Clown are among the most intense. 4. Can teens go to Halloween Horror Nights without a parent? Universal's published Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood information doesn't list a chaperone requirement as of our check, but policies can change. Check the official event page before buying, and set clear ground rules like location sharing and a pickup time. 5. What time does Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood start? The event begins at 7 p.m. on event nights, subject to change. Early Access ticket holders can enter select haunted houses starting at 5:30 p.m. Closing times vary by night.

Discover kids classes near me in Los Angeles! From STEM and arts to sports and music, filter by age, location, and category to find the perfect activity for your child. Classes & Workshops Classes & Workshops Filters All Classes Virtual After-School Programs Private Lessons Parent & Me Workshops Age 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 18+ Category Academic Acrobatics Acting Aerobics Animation Anti-Bullying Art Arts & Crafts Ballet Basketball Bass Books Breastfeeding Cello Chess Child Development Coding Comedy Cooking Cooking Party Dance Drum Emotional Support Fencing Financial Advisor Fitness Games Guitar Gymnastics Hebrew Hip Hop Homework Help Improv Jazz Jewish Jiu Jitsu Karate Language Magic Martial Arts Math Mindfullness Minecraft Mommy Night Out Music Orchestra Pediatric CPR Photography Physical Education Piano Playdates Pre/Postnatal Workout Preschool Prep Racquetball Robotics Science Scuba Diving Sculpting Self-Defense Sensory Sewing Sign Language Singing Snorkling Soccer Social Skills Spanish Speech Therapy Sports Stand-Up STEAM STEM Study Skills Swimming Tai Chi Tap Tennis Test Prep Trumpet Tutoring Ukulele Violin Vocal Volleyball Yoga Gender Boy Girl Location Anaheim Arcadia Azusa Bel Air Beverly Hills Brentwood Burbank Cheviot Hills Chino Claremont Culver City Diamond Bar Downey DTLA Eagle Rock Echo Park El Segundo Encino Gardena Glendale Glendora Hacienda Heights Hancock Park Hawthorne Hermosa Beach Hollywood Huntington Beach Irvine Koreatown La Cañada La Crescenta La Habra La Verne Larchmont Village Long Beach Los Angeles Los Feliz Malibu Manhattan Beach Mar Vista Marina Del Rey Mid-Wilshire Miracle Mile Montebello Montrose North Hollywood Northridge Ojai Pacific Palisades Pasadena Playa Vista Redondo Beach Riverside San Fernando Valley San Marino San Pedro Santa Clarita Santa Monica Sherman Oaks Silverlake SoCal Studio City Tarzana Toluca Lake Topanga Torrance Valencia Van Nuys Venice West Covina West Hills West Hollywood West Los Angeles Westchester Westlake Village Whittier Woodland Hills Yorba Linda Trial Free Minimal Fee Sort by Expert Led Parent & Me Workshops GEM Talent – TV & Film Acting Class GEM Talent – Pop Star Prep Classes The Gourmandise School ClassBento Wild Child Gym Big & Tiny Parent & Me Clever Fox Chess Club Okie Dockie Playgroup FIT4MOM The Friendship Factor The Crow Los Angeles School of Music CAMP JBM Music Lessons Load More

Discover free family-friendly events near me in Los Angeles! Explore upcoming activities like farmers markets, workshops, free museum days, and more for kids and families! Los Angeles Events For Tweens All Aboard for Fun! Ride The Trolley at The Grove 🚋 Sep 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – Jan 01, 2029, 8:00 PM The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036 More info Learn More Limitless Art Space: Free Family Art Activities Sep 03, 2026, 11:00 AM – Dec 31, 2026, 6:00 PM Limitless Art Space, Abbot Kinney Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA More info Learn more Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch Sep 12, 2026, 8:00 AM – Oct 31, 2026, 6:00 PM Irvine Park Railroad, 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869, USA More info Learn more Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch Sep 12, 2026, 9:00 AM – Nov 01, 2026, 9:00 PM Tanaka Farms, 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612, USA More info Learn more Halloween at Kidspace Sep 18, 2026, 10:00 AM – Oct 31, 2026, 5:00 PM Included with admission, N Arroyo Blvd, California, USA More info Learn more California Visionaries: Walt Disney and Hubert Eaton Sep 19, 2026, 10:00 AM – Feb 07, 2027, 5:00 PM Forest Lawn Museum, 1712 S Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91205, USA More info Learn more Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND California Sep 19, 2026, 3:00 PM LEGOLAND California Resort, 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA More info Learn more Spider Pavilion at the Natural History Museum Sep 20, 2026, 9:30 AM – Dec 06, 2026, 5:00 PM Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA More info Learn more Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center Sep 22, 2026, 9:00 AM Hollywood Wax Museum, 6767 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA More info Learn more Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience Sep 22, 2026, 9:30 AM – Nov 30, 2026, 6:30 PM Bubble Planet Los Angeles, 634 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA More info Learn more Aquarium of the Pacific: Skip The Line Sep 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – Dec 15, 2026, 6:00 PM Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA More info Learn more Los Angeles, Beverly Hills' Secret Society: An Outdoor Detective Game Sep 23, 2026, 9:00 AM Downtown Beverly Hills, 240 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, USA More info Learn more Battleship Iowa Museum: General Access Pass Sep 24, 2026, 10:00 AM – Nov 21, 2026, 5:00 PM Battleship USS Iowa Museum, 250 S Harbor Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90731, USA More info Learn more Museum of Make Believe Sep 24, 2026, 11:00 AM – Jun 27, 2027, 7:00 PM Museum of Make Believe, 1590 S Coast Hwy Suite 5, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA More info Learn more Superman Experience: Defenders Unite Sep 24, 2026, 11:00 AM – Feb 28, 2027, 6:00 PM Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505, USA More info Learn more Night of the Jack Sep 25, 2026, 5:30 PM – Nov 01, 2026, 10:00 PM King Gillette Ranch, 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302, USA More info Learn more Underwood Family Farms’ 29th Annual Fall Harvest Festival Sep 26, 2026, 9:00 AM – Oct 31, 2026, 6:00 PM Underwood Family Farms, 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021, USA More info Learn more DATALAND: Machine Dreams: Rainforest Sep 29, 2026, 11:00 AM – Jan 31, 2027, 8:00 PM DATALAND at The Grand LA, 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012 More info Learn more Load More

Discover family-friendly holiday and Christmas events near me in Los Angeles! Explore LA Zoo Lights, Ice at Santa Monica, Winter Fest OC, and more. Celebrate the season with enchanting activities for kids and families! Holiday & Christmas Events 2026 Welcome to our Holiday and Christmas Events in Los Angeles, where you’ll find the best seasonal celebrations to brighten your holiday spirit! From stunning light displays and festive parades to cozy winter markets and enchanting performances, Los Angeles offers countless ways to celebrate the season's magic. Whether you're looking for family-friendly events or a romantic holiday outing, our curated list of Christmas and holiday events ensures you won't miss out on any of the festive fun. Discover the holiday magic happening all around LA and make unforgettable memories this season! Multiple Dates NightTales at the Natural History Museum of L.A. County Nov 12, 2026, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA More info Learn more Holiday in the Park Nov 20, 2026, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM Magnolia Park, 2500 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91505, USA More info Learn more Lighting of the Bay and Fire & Lights Festival Opening Night Nov 27, 2026, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Bob Baker Marionette Theater's Joyous Nutcracker at Sierra Madre Playhouse Nov 28, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024, USA More info Learn more Home Alone Under the Stars at Dodger Stadium Nov 28, 2026, 4:00 PM Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Elf in Concert Nov 28, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA More info Learn more Annual Tree Lighting and Night Market Nov 29, 2026, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Central Park, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates A Charlie Brown Christmas Dec 04, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM The Phantom Projects Theatre at La Habra Depot, 311 S. Euclid St., La Habra, CA 90631, USA More info Learn more 2026 Jingle Bell Run - Los Angeles, CA Dec 05, 2026, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Griffith Park, 4800 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA More info Learn more Snow Day Dec 05, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Bordwell Park, 2008 Martin Luther King Blvd., Riverside, CA 92507, USA More info Learn more Brunch with Santa and Friends Dec 05, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM La Verne Community Center, 3680 D Street, La Verne, CA 91750, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates 5th Annual Holidays In The Village, A European Marketplace Dec 05, 2026, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM The Oaks, 350 W. Hillcrest Dr., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Santa Strolling Dec 05, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Downtown Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Beach Blvd. and Manhattan Ave., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA More info Learn more Holiday Roundup Dec 05, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Leonis Adobe Museum, 23537 Calabasas Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates A CBU Christmas Dec 05, 2026, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Fowler Events Center at CBU, 8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92504, USA More info Learn more 2026 Winter Wonderland Dec 05, 2026, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM Montebello City Hall, 1600 W. Beverly Blvd., Montebello, CA 90640, USA More info Learn more Holiday Family Overnight Dec 05, 2026, 4:30 PM – Dec 06, 2026, 9:00 AM Battleship IOWA, 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates American Ballet Theatre The Nutcracker Dec 10, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Segerstrom Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA More info Learn more Load More