Yes, you can see real fall colors near Los Angeles, and now is the time to start planning. In 2026, the Eastern Sierra is already glowing gold, the local mountains usually peak from mid-October into early November, and LA's gardens save their show for late fall. Here are 21 family-friendly spots, from 20 minutes away to a weekend road trip. We picked places where kids have something to do besides look at trees: apple orchards, creekside trails, a waterfall hike, a mountaintop telescope and lakes made for skipping rocks. Every listing has the address, hours, fees and access notes for this season, plus a parent tip so your leaf-peeping day goes smoothly. Updated October 11, 2026 🍂 Key Takeaways Peak right now: The Eastern Sierra (Bishop Creek, June Lake Loop, Convict Lake) is at or near peak color in early to mid-October 2026. Closest color: Descanso Gardens, The Arboretum and The Huntington are 20 to 30 minutes from downtown LA; their color comes later, usually in November. Best with kids: Oak Glen pairs fall leaves with apple picking, and Chantry Flat leads to the Sturtevant Falls hike. Road alert: Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) is still closed between Newcomb's Ranch and Big Pines, so take I-15 and Highway 138 to Wrightwood. Passes and fees: Many national forest parking areas need a $5 Adventure Pass, and state parks charge about $10 to $12 per car. When Is Peak Fall Color Near Los Angeles in 2026? Fall color in Southern California moves downhill and south as the season goes on. The higher you go, the earlier the show, so the trick is matching your drive to the calendar. Late September to mid-October: High Eastern Sierra lakes above 9,000 feet, like Lake Sabrina and South Lake. In early October 2026, these were at peak or just past it. Mid-October to early November: Mid-elevation Eastern Sierra spots (June Lake Loop, Convict Lake, lower Bishop Creek) and the local mountains, including Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, Oak Glen, Idyllwild and Julian. November into early December: LA's gardens and lowland canyons, where sycamores, ginkgos and Japanese maples are the last to turn. A cold snap was forecast for the Eastern Sierra the week of October 12, 2026, and a hard freeze or windstorm can strip leaves fast. Before a long drive, check the latest reports on California Fall Color and road conditions on Caltrans QuickMap. Fall Foliage Near Los Angeles: Gardens and Parks Under an Hour Away No mountain drive required. These spots are close enough for an afternoon outing, with restrooms, easy paths for little legs and plenty of room to run. 1. Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Descanso is our go-to when we want fall color without the drive. Japanese maples in the Japanese Garden, the shady oak woodland and the season's first camellias make an easy loop, and kids love the bridges and winding paths. General admission is $20 for adults, $14 for seniors 65+ and students, $8 for kids 3 to 12 and free for ages 2 and under. The garden is cashless, and parking is free. Through November 1, 2026, Descanso also hosts Carved, its evening walk of glowing jack-o'-lanterns (separate ticket; non-member adults $29 to $52, kids 2 to 12 $19 to $37). On Halloween Day, October 31, daytime admission includes trick-or-treating and rides on the Pumpkin Express train through the fall foliage. Find details on the Descanso Gardens website. Parent Tip: Weekday mornings are the calmest. If you're doing Carved too, buy the evening ticket separately; daytime admission doesn't include it. 2. The Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin Avenue Arcadia, CA 91007 Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.) The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden spreads across 127 acres of gardens from around the world, so kids have room to roam while the deciduous trees add warm color as the weather cools. The real stars for little ones are the free-roaming peafowl strutting across the lawns. Admission is $18 for adults, $14 for seniors 62+ and students, $8 for kids 3 to 12 and free for ages 2 and under. EBT cardholders get free entry for two adults and up to four kids. Check the Arboretum website for parking details and special programs. Parent Tip: Remind kids to give the peacocks about 10 feet of space. They're used to people, but they don't like being chased. Malibu Creek Rock Pool. Photo: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (public domain) 3. Malibu Creek State Park 1925 Las Virgenes Road Calabasas, CA 91302 Day-use parking: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visitor center: Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. About 40 minutes from downtown, Malibu Creek trades city noise for oak and sycamore canyons, volcanic cliffs and calm pools. The easy walk to the Rock Pool or Century Lake suits school-age hikers, and TV fans can continue to the former M*A*S*H filming site, where the bridge was reinstalled this year. Parking is $12 per vehicle per day or $3 per hour. Dogs aren't allowed on trails, and the park can close during Red Flag fire-weather warnings. Parent Tip: Bring water shoes for exploring around the Rock Pool, and check the park page for Red Flag closures before you leave home. 4. Point Mugu State Park 9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90265 Sycamore Canyon day use: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Big Sycamore Canyon lives up to its name. The wide, mostly flat canyon trail runs under sycamores and oaks that turn tawny gold later in the fall, and Sycamore Cove beach is right across PCH for a post-hike run in the sand. The canyon is also known for overwintering monarch butterflies from late fall into winter, though numbers change from year to year. Day use is $12 per vehicle or $3 per hour, and the Sycamore Canyon Nature Center is open weekends, noon to 3 p.m. Water is shut off at the La Jolla day-use area, so bring your own, and the park has reported mountain lion sightings, so keep kids within arm's reach. Parent Tip: The first stretch of the canyon fire road is wide and gentle, which makes it a nice first trail ride for older kids on bikes. 5. The Huntington 1151 Oxford Road San Marino, CA 91108 Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Tuesdays The Huntington's Japanese and Chinese gardens put on a quieter show, with golden ginkgos and maples that usually color up late in the season. Bring little ones to the Children's Garden (ages 2 to 7), where a fog grotto, splash fountains and topiaries turn botany into play. Check the Huntington website for current ticket prices. Free Day is the first Thursday of each month; tickets are released online at 9 a.m. on the last Thursday of the month before, and every guest, including babies, needs one. Parking is free, but the Oxford Road and Allen Avenue lots fill on weekends. Parent Tip: Pack bug spray. Mosquitoes can be heavy in the shady gardens, especially the Jungle Garden. Advertisement 6. Lacy Park 1485 Virginia Road San Marino, CA 91108 Weekdays: 6:30 a.m. to dusk Weekends: 8 a.m. to dusk Just down the road from The Huntington, Lacy Park is a 30-acre sweep of lawn ringed by mature trees, with a paved loop that's perfect for scooters and bikes. As the trees drop their leaves later in the fall, kids get the classic leaf-crunching walk that's hard to find in LA. Weekdays are free. On weekends, non-residents pay $4 per person (kids 4 and under free), and all weekend visitors check in at the gatehouse. Parent Tip: Pair it with The Huntington for a full San Marino day: gardens in the morning, then a picnic and scooter laps at Lacy Park. Fall Colors in the San Gabriel Mountains The mountains above Pasadena are the closest place to trade palm trees for pines. Some roads and trails are still recovering from storm and fire damage, so read the access notes before you go. 7. Wrightwood and Big Pines Wrightwood, CA 92397 Best route right now: I-15 to Highway 138 (SR-2 from La Cañada Flintridge is closed) Wrightwood is a small mountain town at about 6,000 feet, where black oaks and planted maples turn gold and red in the fall. It's a cozy stop for cocoa, a stroll past the shops and a walk in the pines. Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) is still closed between Newcomb's Ranch and Big Pines, so you can't drive in from the La Cañada Flintridge side. Jackson Lake is temporarily closed, and the Grassy Hollow and Big Pines visitor centers are listed as closed. Many forest parking areas near Big Pines require a Big Pines Pass ($5 per day), sold through Mountain High. Parent Tip: Check Caltrans QuickMap the morning you go; mountain roads can close for storms or repairs on short notice. 8. Mount Wilson Observatory Mount Wilson, CA 91023 Grounds open daily, 10 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. depending on the season Mount Wilson is less about leaves and more about the view: on a clear fall day you can look across the whole LA Basin from about 5,700 feet, then peek into the dome of the historic 100-inch telescope. The grounds are free, but you need an Adventure Pass to park. Weekend docent tours run Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. through November ($20 adults; $15 for ages 12 and under and 62+; no kids under 6). The Cosmic Café is open weekends, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The observatory is reached via Angeles Crest Highway and Red Box Road. Some Eaton Fire closures remain in the area, including the Mt. Wilson Toll Road, so check the observatory's visiting page and Caltrans before you drive. Parent Tip: Bring layers. It's often much cooler on the mountain than in Pasadena, especially once the sun drops. Sturtevant Falls trail. Photo: USDA / Flickr (CC BY 2.0) 9. Chantry Flat and Sturtevant Falls Chantry Flat Picnic Area Top of N. Santa Anita Avenue Arcadia, CA 91006 Day use: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. This is our favorite fall hike for kids close to LA. The trail to Sturtevant Falls drops into Big Santa Anita Canyon, past creekside cabins and under alders, oaks and bigleaf maples that turn yellow in late fall, and ends at a roughly 50-foot waterfall. Plan on about 3.5 miles round trip, with a steady climb back to the car. You need an Adventure Pass to park, and passes are sold at Adams Pack Station at the trailhead. The lot is small and fills early on weekends, and the road can close to vehicles at any time. Parent Tip: Save the big snack for the falls. The downhill part is easy; the climb back up is what tires little hikers. Mountain Lakes and Scenic Drives for Fall Color These are the classic fall day trips from LA: forested lakes, winding byways and mountain towns that do cozy very well. Plan on about 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way. 10. Lake Arrowhead Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 Highway 189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352 The drive up the Rim of the World Scenic Byway is half the fun, with huge views over the valley before you reach the pines and black oaks around the lake. Black oaks here typically turn gold from late October into early November. In the village, Oktoberfest runs Saturdays and Sundays through October 25, 2026 at Waterfront Park (Saturdays noon to 7 p.m., Sundays noon to 5 p.m.). Admission and parking are free, all ages are welcome and there are kids' games in the early afternoon. Strollers aren't allowed in the event area, and sessions can be canceled for weather, so check the Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest page before you go. Parent Tip: Lake Arrowhead is a private lake, so most families enjoy it from the village waterfront. Bring a jacket for the breezy lakeside walk. 11. Big Bear Lake Big Bear Discovery Center 40971 North Shore Drive (Highway 38) Fawnskin, CA 92333 Discovery Center: Thursday to Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Big Bear's color usually peaks from mid-October to early November, when black oaks and willows around the lake turn gold. Start at the free Discovery Center, which has a Nature Discovery Zone for ages 2 to 7 and sells Adventure Passes. Older kids can tackle the Castle Rock Trail: 1.2 miles one way with about 500 feet of climbing to granite boulders and big lake views. The trailhead is a small turnout on Highway 18, 1.1 miles east of Big Bear Dam, and you don't need an Adventure Pass to park there. Big Bear's Oktoberfest at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center (42900 Big Bear Boulevard) runs on fall weekends with a Sunday Family Fun Day; check for remaining 2026 dates before you go. For more ideas, see our family guide to Big Bear. Parent Tip: Castle Rock is steep and rocky in spots, so it's best for kids about 7 and up in sturdy shoes. 12. Idyllwild Nature Center 25225 Highway 243 Idyllwild, CA 92549 Nature center: Wednesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trails: daily, sunrise to sunset Idyllwild feels like a storybook mountain village, and the Nature Center is the easiest way to explore it with kids. Short trails wind through pines and oaks, and in fall the black oaks around the area add pops of gold. Inside, kids can see live animals and natural-history displays, and outside they can find bedrock mortars the Cahuilla people used to grind acorns. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for kids 2 to 12 and free for under 2. Parent Tip: After the trails, drive a few minutes into town for lunch and a browse through the local shops. 13. Ortega Highway and Caspers Wilderness Park Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park 33401 Ortega Highway San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Daily, 7 a.m. to sunset Highway 74 twists from San Juan Capistrano over the Santa Ana Mountains toward Lake Elsinore, and it's one of Orange County's prettiest fall drives. Make Caspers your stop: its oak groves and sycamore stands turn warm shades later in the fall, and the nature center and historic windmill give kids a goal. Parking is $3 per vehicle on weekdays and $5 on weekends. Kids must be under direct adult supervision at all times, and this is mountain lion country, so keep little ones close on the trail. Parent Tip: The Ortega is narrow and curvy with heavy weekend traffic. If anyone gets carsick, make Caspers your destination and turn back from there. Apple Country and the San Diego Mountains Fall leaves plus fresh apples? That's a day kids remember. Julian and Oak Glen are Southern California's two classic apple towns, and the oak-filled state parks near Julian make it easy to turn a pie run into a weekend. 14. Julian Julian Chamber of Commerce 2129 Main Street Julian, CA 92036 This historic gold-rush town in the Cuyamaca Mountains is all about apples, with pie shops along Main Street and orchards in the hills around town. Apple season here runs roughly August through October, so late-season visitors should call ahead before planning to pick. At Julian Farm & Orchard (4381 Julian Highway), apple picking is by reservation through its Apple Tours, Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through November 15, 2026, with a petting zoo and hayrides. In town, the Julian Pioneer Museum (2811 Washington Street) is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; call ahead before you go. Parent Tip: Arrive before 11 a.m. on weekends. Main Street parking fills quickly, and the pie lines get long. Oak Glen in autumn. Photo: inkknife_2000 / Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0) 15. Oak Glen Oak Glen Preserve 39611 Oak Glen Road, Building 10 Oak Glen, CA 92399 Preserve hours: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through October; 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. November to March Oak Glen is the fall day trip we recommend most to LA families. The road through the canyon is lined with oaks, maples and apple orchards that turn red, orange and gold, and nearly every stop has something for kids: apples, cider, pie and farm animals. Start at the free Oak Glen Preserve, with trails, ponds and a Children's Outdoor Discovery Center. Los Rios Rancho offers u-pick apples on weekends while supplies last, plus a pumpkin patch, cider pressing, a corn maze and a petting zoo, with no admission fee; its Apple Butter Festival runs November 27 to 29. Riley's Farm offers u-pick apples Tuesday through Saturday ($3.50 per pound as of early October), and Snow-Line Orchard (39400 Oak Glen Road) is open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Want more orchards? See our guide to apple picking near Los Angeles. Parent Tip: Go early on weekends; the two-lane road backs up by midday. Apple supplies change fast this late in the season, so call ahead (Riley's crop line is 909-797-7534) before you drive. 16. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park 13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036 Day-use hours vary; check the park website Just south of Julian, Cuyamaca Rancho is a big, peaceful park of oaks, pines and meadows that has been regrowing since the 2003 Cedar Fire. California black oaks here usually color up from late October into November. Kids can splash along the creek at Green Valley and follow the Paso Picacho nature trail. Day use is $10 per vehicle ($9 for seniors). Parent Tip: Pair it with Julian: pie in town, then a leafy picnic at Paso Picacho on the drive out. 17. Palomar Mountain State Park 19952 State Park Drive Palomar Mountain, CA 92060 Open 8 a.m. to sunset High above North County, Palomar Mountain feels like a slice of the Sierra, with tall conifers, black oaks and mountain meadows. Kids can try trout fishing at Doane Pond (anglers 16 and up need a California fishing license). Day use is $10 per vehicle, cash or check only. Don't bring oak firewood; it's banned here to slow the spread of the goldspotted oak borer. Parent Tip: Bring cash, and fill up on gas and snacks before the climb, since services on the mountain are limited. Weekend Road Trips: Sequoia and the Eastern Sierra For the brightest color in California, head north. Eastern Sierra aspens glow gold, orange and even red, and October 2026 is shaping up to be a strong season. These trips work best as an overnight or long weekend. 18. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Foothills Visitor Center 47050 Generals Highway Three Rivers, CA 93271 Visitor centers: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. after October 12 (Lodgepole is closed) Giant sequoias look even more dramatic when the dogwoods, black oaks and ferns around them turn red and gold. The drive up the Generals Highway takes kids from oak foothills to the world's biggest trees in one afternoon. Entrance is $35 per vehicle, and entrance stations are cashless. Crystal Cave tours run through November 1, Mineral King Road closes October 28 and Highway 180 to Cedar Grove (the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway) is scheduled to close November 13, 2026. November 11 is a fee-free day. Parent Tip: Ask at a visitor center about the Junior Ranger program. It keeps kids engaged between groves, and they come home with a badge. 19. Bishop Creek Canyon Bishop Visitor Center 218-A S. Main Street Bishop, CA 93514 Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bishop Creek Canyon, just west of Bishop on Highway 168, is one of California's most famous aspen spots. As of October 7, 2026, Lake Sabrina, South Lake and Weir Pond were at peak, with Lake Sabrina close to tipping past it. The lower canyon and the town were still patchy, so color will keep moving downhill through late October. The path across the Lake Sabrina dam is closed for dam work this season, and Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect in the Inyo National Forest. Parent Tip: Short walks at the lakes give kids a huge payoff. Dress in layers, since mornings near 9,000 feet can be below freezing in October. 20. June Lake Loop Highway 158 (June Lake Loop) June Lake, CA 93529 This roughly 16-mile loop off Highway 395 passes June, Gull, Silver and Grant lakes, with aspen groves tucked against granite peaks. In early October 2026, the loop was near peak (50 to 75 percent color), with Gull and Silver lakes standing out, and color was expected to stay strong for the next few weeks. Parent Tip: Gull Lake is small and calm, which makes it a great spot for rock skipping and a picnic break. Convict Lake in autumn. Photo: inkknife_2000 / Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0) 21. Mammoth Lakes and Convict Lake Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center 2510 Main Street Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Mammoth makes a comfortable base for a fall color weekend, with color spots in every direction. Convict Lake, just off Highway 395 south of town, was near peak in early October 2026. Rock Creek was at peak to past peak near the lake, and McGee Creek was at 50 to 75 percent. Reds Meadow Road is open Thursday through Sunday until it closes for the season on November 2, and Lake Mary Road into the Lakes Basin stays open until the first major snowstorm. Parent Tip: The trail around Convict Lake is about 2.5 miles and mostly flat, perfect for kids. Bring warm hats; the wind off the lake gets chilly. Tips for Leaf Peeping With Kids Near LA Get your Adventure Pass first: Many parking areas in the Angeles, San Bernardino and Cleveland national forests need one ($5 per day or $30 per year). Find details on the Forest Service Adventure Pass page, including digital day passes. Check roads the morning you go: Fall storms, fire weather and repair work can close mountain roads quickly. Pack layers and snacks: Mountain towns can be much colder than LA, especially in the morning and after sunset. Go early or on a weekday: Oak Glen, Julian and Big Bear get crowded on fall weekends. Make it a game: Give kids a color scavenger hunt (find red, orange, yellow and brown leaves). In parks and forests, take photos instead of picking leaves, and save the leaf collecting for your own neighborhood. 📬 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 Best Places to See Fall Foliage Near LA Fall color near Los Angeles is real; you just have to time it. Head to the Eastern Sierra now for blazing aspens, plan a mountain day trip to Oak Glen, Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead from mid-October into early November, and save Descanso Gardens, The Arboretum and The Huntington for late fall. Whichever you choose, check roads and passes before you go, and let the kids lead the leaf hunt. Fall Foliage Near Los Angeles: FAQs 1. Where can I see fall foliage near Los Angeles? The closest spots are Descanso Gardens, The Arboretum and The Huntington, all about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown. For brighter color, drive 1.5 to 2.5 hours to Oak Glen, Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Idyllwild or Julian. For the best aspens, plan a weekend in the Eastern Sierra. 2. When is peak fall foliage in Southern California? It depends on elevation. The high Eastern Sierra peaks from late September to mid-October, local mountains like Big Bear and Oak Glen usually peak from mid-October to early November, and LA's gardens and lowland canyons turn last, often in November and early December. 3. What is the best fall color drive near Los Angeles? For a day trip, Oak Glen is hard to beat, with orchards, oaks and maples about 1.5 hours from LA. For a weekend, the drive up Highway 395 to Bishop Creek Canyon, the June Lake Loop and Convict Lake delivers California's most dramatic aspen color. 4. Do I need an Adventure Pass to see fall colors near LA? Only at certain spots. Many parking areas in the Angeles, San Bernardino and Cleveland national forests require a $5 daily or $30 annual Adventure Pass, including Chantry Flat and Mount Wilson. Gardens, city parks and state parks charge their own admission or parking fees instead. 5. Is the Angeles Crest Highway open for fall colors in 2026? Partly. As of October 11, 2026, Caltrans lists SR-2 as closed between Newcomb's Ranch and Big Pines, with no reopening date. Mount Wilson is reached from the La Cañada Flintridge end, Chantry Flat from Arcadia, and Wrightwood is easiest via I-15 and Highway 138. ❤️ You May Also Like Pumpkins, Apples & Glowing Trails: 45 Fall Activities in and near LA for Kids Huge List of Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals in and near Los Angeles Get Lost in the Best Corn Mazes in Southern California This Fall 📌 Pin It for Later!

Updated for 2026 A family-friendly happy hour may sound like an oxymoron, but finding a sitter for a quick bite and a drink can cost more than the happy hour saves. The good news: plenty of LA restaurants welcome kids at happy hour, with patios, kids menus, roomy booths, and even lawn games. Here are the 28 best family-friendly happy hours in Los Angeles for 2026, from Atwater Village brewpubs and Santa Monica Pier seafood to Valley pizza parlors and South Bay beach spots. We checked every happy hour time on each restaurant's own website, so you can plan an early dinner where the grown-ups save and the kids are happy. A quick note before you go: alcohol is for guests 21 and up, happy hour menus change often, and some deals are served only in certain areas of a restaurant. Most happy hours wrap up by 6 or 7 p.m., which lines up nicely with an early family dinner. Family-Friendly Happy Hours at a Glance Best for little kids: Islands, Shakey's, Lazy Dog, Hopdoddy and Gyu-Kaku all have kids menus. Best outdoor space: Golden Road Brewing's lawn games, Lil' Simmzy's on the Deck, and The Lobster's ocean-view patio. Best for weekends: Islands (all day Sunday), Kabuki in Woodland Hills (weekend afternoons) and Dog Haus Pasadena (daily). Best views: The Lobster on the Santa Monica Pier, Beachside in Marina del Rey and Spruzzo in Malibu. Best for a treat: The Hollywood Rooftop at Madame Tussauds and Bourbon Steak at The Americana at Brand. Downtown LA, Hollywood and Central LA From a 100-year-old Scottish pub to a Hollywood rooftop, these central LA spots make it easy to bring the kids along. 1. Golden Road Brewing – Atwater Village 5410 W. San Fernando Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90039 Happy Hour: All day Monday; Tuesday–Friday, 3–6 p.m. Golden Road's Atwater Village brewpub calls itself family-friendly, and it shows: there's a big front patio with yard games, shaded outdoor seating and a side lawn bar. The menu even has a "Kids + Dogs" section with sliders, pizza, popcorn chicken, grilled cheese and nuggets, so everyone (including the pup) is covered. Parent Tip: Pair happy hour with an afternoon at nearby Griffith Park, then come here to refuel. 2. Tam O'Shanter 2980 Los Feliz Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90039 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 2–5 p.m. in the Pub and on the Patio Open for more than 100 years, this storybook Scottish-style restaurant on Los Feliz Boulevard feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with tartans, cozy wood beams and a charming patio. Happy hour includes favorites like the poutine fries, and the early 2–5 p.m. window is perfect for a family meal before the dinner rush. Parent Tip: The homepage and happy hour page list slightly different days, so call ahead to confirm. 3. The Hollywood Rooftop Restaurant & Bar 6933 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028 Happy Hour: Currently Monday and Thursday, 3–6 p.m., and Friday, 2–7 p.m. (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) Deals: $9 well drinks, $7 beer and wine, $12 mystery cocktails Perched on top of Madame Tussauds Hollywood, this open-air rooftop welcomes guests of all ages (kids under 18 must be with an adult), and you don't need a museum ticket to dine. The views over Hollywood Boulevard are fun for everyone, and the happy hour sliders and quick bites are easy kid-pleasers. Parent Tip: The rooftop is fully outdoors and may close in bad weather, so check the site before you go. 4. Granville 8701 Beverly Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90048 Happy Hour: Weekdays, 3–6 p.m. This modern-casual neighborhood restaurant has a "come as you are" vibe and a kids menu (the Little Villager's Menu) that makes family dinners easy. Granville also has locations in Studio City, Burbank, North Hollywood and Pasadena with the same weekday happy hour, and North Hollywood offers all-day happy hour Monday through Wednesday. 5. Tocaya Modern Mexican 6550 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028 Happy Hour: Drinks all day, Monday–Friday; bites 3–6 p.m., Monday–Friday Tocaya's fast-casual counter service is a lifesaver with hungry kids, and the kids menu has quesadillas, bean-and-cheese burritos, chicken tacos and chicken strips served with fruit and rice. Besides Hollywood, you'll find Tocaya in Downtown LA, Playa Vista and Santa Monica. 6. Cassell's Hamburgers – Chinatown 1021 Alpine St. (entrance on Centennial St.) Los Angeles, CA 90012 Happy Hour: Friday–Saturday, 3–6 p.m. This classic LA burger joint dates back to 1948, and kids love the milkshakes, malts and house-made pies. It's a fun stop after exploring Chinatown or a game at Dodger Stadium. 7. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ – Downtown LA 514 W. 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014 Happy Hour: All day Monday; Tuesday–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m., plus late night Grilling your own meat right at the table is pure entertainment for kids, and Gyu-Kaku has a kids menu with $7.50 combos for ages 12 and under, plus $1.50 apple juice and ice cream. The Beverly Hills location (163 N. La Cienega Blvd.) has a similar happy hour schedule, including all day Monday. Parent Tip: Ask for the ready-to-eat kids combo if your little ones are too young for the grill. 8. Dave & Buster's – Hollywood 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Suite C3-343 Los Angeles, CA 90028 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–7 p.m. Deals: Drinks starting at $5 (offers vary by location) Kids play the giant arcade while parents enjoy happy hour at Ovation Hollywood. It's a natural pick for birthdays and rainy days, and the early weekday window keeps it kid-friendly. Parent Tip: Dave & Buster's has house rules for guests under 21, so check the location's policy before you go. Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey and Malibu Ocean breezes, beach views and kids menus make the Westside a happy-hour sweet spot for families. 9. The Lobster 1602 Ocean Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90401 Happy Hour: Daily, 3–6 p.m., and all day Friday (bar and patio) Deals: Cocktails and house wines $11, draft beer $9, smash burger $14, calamari $14; $3 oysters daily from 5–6 p.m. Sitting right at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster serves happy hour on its patio as well as the bar, so the whole family can enjoy the ocean view. The smash burger and calamari are easy shares, and the Pier's rides are just steps away. Parent Tip: Happy hour seating is first come, first served on the patio, so arrive right at 3 p.m. on weekends. 10. Barney's Beanery – Santa Monica 1351 Third Street Promenade Santa Monica, CA 90401 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–7 p.m. Deals: $2 off appetizers, plus discounted drafts and well drinks Barney's patio sits right on the car-free Third Street Promenade, a few blocks from the beach, and the giant newspaper-style menu has something for everyone. The Westwood location (1037 Broxton Ave.) has the same happy hour. Parent Tip: It's a sports bar at heart, so go early in the happy hour window with little ones. 11. The Waterfront Venice 205 Ocean Front Walk Venice, CA 90291 Happy Hour: Weekdays, 3–7 p.m.; weekends, 7–8 p.m. (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) Right on the Venice Beach boardwalk, The Waterfront serves up people-watching and ocean views. Kids love the smoothies, chicken dippers and bite-size "fish stickers." 12. Firestone Walker Brewing Company – The Propagator 3205 Washington Blvd. Marina del Rey, CA 90292 Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday, 3–5 p.m. Deals: $5 select beers and $2 off small bites and shareables Firestone Walker's Venice taproom has two outdoor patios, pizzas, burgers and mac and cheese, and it welcomes all ages. It's a relaxed spot for an early weekday dinner after school. Parent Tip: Parking is limited and fills quickly, so the brewery recommends rideshare or biking. 13. Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Playa Vista 12746 Jefferson Blvd., Suite 1120 Playa Vista, CA 90094 Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday, 3–6 p.m. Deals: Half off cocktails, beer, wine and sliders Hopdoddy's kids meals (a kid's burger, grilled cheese or tenders) come with hand-cut fries and a drink, and the milkshakes make it a treat. It's in the Runway at Playa Vista shopping center, with garage parking. 14. Beachside Restaurant & Bar 14160 Palawan Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m. Deals: $2 off beer and wine, $10 well cocktails and $10 margaritas At the Jamaica Bay Inn, Beachside's spacious dining room opens onto an oceanfront patio overlooking Mother's Beach, where little ones can watch the paddleboarders while you sip. Parent Tip: Mother's Beach has calm water that's perfect for toddlers, so bring a change of clothes. 15. Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar – Malibu 29575 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m. Spruzzo describes itself as a family-friendly neighborhood spot, with wood-fired pizza, pastas and an outdoor patio with sweeping Pacific views. It's a perfect stop after a day at Zuma or Point Dume. San Fernando Valley, Glendale and Pasadena Valley parents, you're in luck: these spots serve happy hour in the dining room, with kids menus and even all-day Sunday deals. 16. Islands Restaurant 14141 Ventura Blvd., #2 Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Happy Hour: All day Sunday, plus afternoons from 3 p.m. on select weekdays (current football-season schedule) Deals: Bites and drinks from $3 to $10, including mocktails Islands serves happy hour throughout the whole restaurant, not just the bar, and its tropical-themed "Gremmie" kids meals (for ages 12 and under) come with an entree, side and drink. Other locations include Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Northridge, Torrance and Manhattan Beach. Parent Tip: All-day Sunday happy hour is a great way to end a busy family weekend. 17. Kabuki Japanese Restaurant – Woodland Hills 20940 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91364 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 2–5 p.m. Deals: $3 Sapporo draft and hot sake, California roll $4.25, spicy tuna roll $4.95 Weekend afternoon happy hour makes Kabuki a rare find for families, and the kids menu (for ages 8 and under) includes sesame chicken and chicken teriyaki served with salad and a drink. 18. Shakey's Pizza Parlor – Glendale 1133 S. Glendale Ave. Glendale, CA 91205 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 2–5 p.m. (dine-in only) Deals: Under-$8 menu, including a small one-topping pizza for $7.99 and boneless chicken bites for $5.99 This classic family pizza parlor has outdoor seating, kids' drinks and Thrifty ice cream. Shakey's in Burbank and Alhambra offer the same weekday happy hour. Parent Tip: The 2–5 p.m. window is perfect for an after-school pizza stop. 19. Bourbon Steak Los Angeles 237 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91210 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–6 p.m. at the bar, salon and patio Deals: Cocktails $14, wines by the glass $12–$14, trio of duck fat fries $12, bacon burger $24 Chef Michael Mina's steakhouse at The Americana at Brand serves happy hour on its patio, too, so older kids can watch the fountain and the trolley while parents enjoy a cocktail. It's an upscale treat best for well-behaved kids. 20. Twohey's Restaurant 424 Fair Oaks Ave. South Pasadena, CA 91030 Happy Hour: Daily from 3 p.m. (closed Tuesdays) Deals: $7 wines and $7 classic cocktails This family-owned diner has been serving families since 1943, and the South Pasadena location has a vintage lunch counter, outdoor patios and a soda fountain with signature sundaes. Parent Tip: The site lists two different end times (5 p.m. and 6 p.m.), so arrive by 3:30 to be safe. 21. Dog Haus – Pasadena 105 N. Hill Ave., Suite 104 Pasadena, CA 91106 Happy Hour: Daily, 3–6 p.m. Deals: $2 off draft beer and wine, $3 off cocktails, $1 off any 3-pack of sliders This casual hot dog and burger spot lists itself as family-friendly, with outdoor seating and convenient parking. Daily happy hour, weekends included, makes it an easy go-to. South Bay, Long Beach and San Pedro Beach-town casual and kid-approved, these South Bay and harbor spots are perfect after a day by the water. 22. Rock'N Fish – Manhattan Beach 120 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–5 p.m. (not on holidays) Deals: $10.95 bites Steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier, Rock'N Fish has a kids menu for ages 10 and under with grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fish and chips and an ice cream sundae. 23. Simmzy's – Long Beach 5271 E. 2nd St. Long Beach, CA 90803 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m. Deals: $5 tacos, $7 house beers, $7 sangria, $11.50 wood-fired pizzas Simmzy's in Belmont Shore calls itself family- and dog-friendly, and its "For the Kiddos" menu has chicken tenders and grilled cheese with a side. You're just steps from the beach and the bay. 24. Lil' Simmzy's on the Deck 850 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. El Segundo, CA 90245 Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday, 3–5 p.m., plus the last hour before closing Deals: $2 off beers, $3 off cocktails, chicken tostadas from $4.50 Order at the counter and grab a spot on the sunny outdoor deck. With no reservations needed, it's an easy, low-stress pick for families with wiggly kids. 25. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – Torrance 3525 W. Carson St. Torrance, CA 90503 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m. at the bar or on the patio Deals: Sips and bites starting at $4 Lazy Dog's dog-friendly patio means the whole family, pup included, can join happy hour. Kids get crayons, a kids menu and, on Wednesday family nights, a free build-your-own sundae with a kid's meal. Parent Tip: Ask your server if Wednesday Family Night is running before you order. 26. Hennessey's Tavern – Hermosa Beach 8 Pier Ave. Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–7 p.m. On The Strand with pier and ocean views, Hennessey's has indoor, outdoor and rooftop seating, and its kids menu includes pancakes, scrambled eggs and French toast. Parent Tip: It's a tavern, so call ahead to check the policy for kids during evening hours and on the rooftop. 27. San Pedro Brewing Company 331 W. 6th St. San Pedro, CA 90731 Happy Hour: All day Monday and Tuesday; Wednesday–Friday, 2–6 p.m. (dine-in only) This family-owned brewpub has a kids menu and a patio, and the happy hour menu includes sliders, hot dogs, nachos and wings. It's a perfect stop after visiting the Battleship IOWA or Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. 28. San Pedro Fish Market – Long Beach 6550 E. Marina Dr. Long Beach, CA 90803 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3 p.m. to close Family-owned since 1956, San Pedro Fish Market is famous for its giant shrimp trays, which are perfect for sharing with a hungry crew. 📬 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 You don't need a babysitter to enjoy happy hour in LA. From Golden Road's lawn games and Islands' all-day Sunday deals to sunset views at The Lobster and Beachside, these 28 spots let parents relax while the kids eat well and have fun. Happy hour times and deals change often, so check each restaurant's website before you go, and always plan a safe ride home if you're drinking. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Are kids allowed at happy hour in Los Angeles? Yes, at many restaurants. Kids are welcome when happy hour is served in the dining room or on the patio, as at Islands, Golden Road and The Lobster. Some places serve happy hour in the bar only, where minors may not be allowed, so check before you sit down. 2. Which family-friendly restaurants in LA have happy hour on weekends? Islands offers all-day happy hour on Sundays, Kabuki in Woodland Hills runs happy hour on weekend afternoons from 2 to 5 p.m., Dog Haus Pasadena has happy hour daily, and The Lobster runs it every day from 3 to 6 p.m. 3. Which LA happy hours have kids menus? Islands, Shakey's, Hopdoddy, Gyu-Kaku, Tocaya, Granville, Kabuki, Lazy Dog, Simmzy's, Rock'N Fish, Golden Road and San Pedro Brewing Company all offer kids menus, so the little ones can order their own meals. 4. What time is happy hour at most LA restaurants? Most happy hours in Los Angeles run on weekdays between 3 and 6 p.m., with some starting at 2 p.m. and a few lasting until 7 p.m. That early window works well for families planning an early dinner. 5. What are the best happy hours with ocean views in LA? For ocean views with the kids, try The Lobster at the Santa Monica Pier, Beachside in Marina del Rey, The Waterfront in Venice, Spruzzo in Malibu, Hennessey's Tavern in Hermosa Beach and Rock'N Fish near the Manhattan Beach Pier. ❤️ You May Also Like 50 Kid-Friendly Restaurants and Family Eats You Must Try! 20 Kid-Friendly Restaurants with Great Patios in Los Angeles! 17 Best Pizza Places in Los Angeles: A Guide for Families! 📌 Pin It for Later!

Money feels tight for a lot of Los Angeles families this time of year, and that is nothing to be embarrassed about. If you are wondering how to get a free Christmas tree, free toys for your kids, or a little extra help with holiday meals in 2026, there are real programs in LA County that exist for exactly this reason. One honest note before you start: most of these programs have limited supplies and fill up quickly, so none of them can promise help to everyone. Applying early, and to more than one program, gives your family the best chance. Quick Guide: Key 2026 Holiday Assistance Dates USPS Operation Santa: Letters accepted now; last day to mail letters is December 5, 2026 Toys for Tots (Los Angeles area): Partner-agency list posted after November 1 Salvation Army Angel Tree: Apply online by ZIP code when your local site opens Free Christmas trees: Request from The Christmas Tree Project as early as possible Food and emergency help: Call 211 any time, 24 hours a day Parent tip: Keep a folder (paper or on your phone) with a photo ID, proof of address such as a utility bill or lease, and your children's birth certificates or school records. Many programs ask for the same documents, and having them ready makes applying much faster. How to Get a Free Christmas Tree in 2026 A tree is not a necessity, but for many kids it is the heart of the holiday. These programs help families put one in the living room. The Christmas Tree Project Online request form Serves families across the U.S. The Christmas Tree Project gives fully decorated Christmas trees to families going through a hard time. Requests are made through the online form on its website, and the organization asks families to use the form rather than calling or emailing. The project is upfront that it cannot promise a tree to everyone who applies, so treat it as one option, not your only plan. Submit your request as early in the season as you can. Trees for Troops from the Christmas Spirit Foundation For military service members and their families If someone in your household serves in the military, the Christmas Spirit Foundation's Trees for Troops program delivers donated, farm-grown Christmas trees to military bases for service members and their families. Ask your base's family readiness or community services office how trees are distributed where you are stationed. Free Christmas Tree Permits for Fourth and Fifth Graders Here is a fun one many parents have never heard of. Through the federal Every Kid Outdoors program, each fourth- and fifth-grade student can get a voucher for a free Christmas tree permit at national forests that offer tree cutting, according to the National Forest Foundation. You redeem the voucher on Recreation.gov. Not every national forest sells tree permits, and cutting areas can be a long drive from LA with winter road conditions, so check with the specific forest before you go. It turns tree shopping into a real family adventure. Free Christmas Toys for Kids in Los Angeles These are the big, established toy programs. Each one works a little differently, so read the details carefully. Marine Toys for Tots Local campaigns throughout Los Angeles County Partner-agency list posted after November 1, 2026 Toys for Tots, run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, collects new, unwrapped toys and gives them to children in need. In the Los Angeles area, the local campaign does not deliver toys directly to families. Instead, parents request toys through approved partner agencies, such as churches, schools, and community groups. The Pasadena/North Los Angeles campaign says its list of approved agencies becomes available after November 1 each year. Visit the national site, find your local campaign, and check its agency list as soon as it is posted. Parent tip: Your child's school counselor or family resource center is often a partner agency, or knows which one to call. Salvation Army Angel Tree Online application by ZIP code Serves children and some senior adults With the Angel Tree program, registered children (and some seniors) get their Christmas wish lists shared with donors in the community, who buy new clothing and toys. The gifts are then given to the family to place under their own tree. Donors only see a first name and a wish list, so your family's privacy is protected. To apply, enter your ZIP code on the Angel Tree site. If your area is not served online, contact your local Salvation Army to ask about other ways to apply. You may be asked for a photo ID and proof of residence, and you can upload documents from your phone. See the Salvation Army Southern California holiday page for local centers. ABC7 Spark of Love Toy Drive Collected at Southern California fire stations 2025 drive ran November 17 through December 24; 2026 dates to be announced Spark of Love is the annual toy drive run by ABC7 and Southern California firefighters, and it has gifted more than 11 million toys since 1992. Toys are distributed through community organizations rather than directly to individual families. In 2025, ABC7's how-to-request page explained that organizations in the City of Los Angeles request toys through the LAFD, while LA County organizations apply through the LA County Fire Department. If you work with a school, nonprofit, or church that serves families, let them know about this program. USPS Operation Santa Letters accepted now Last day for letter writers: Saturday, December 5, 2026 Kids can write a letter to Santa, and through USPS Operation Santa, generous strangers across the country "adopt" letters and ship gifts. The U.S. Postal Service's official 2026 calendar lists these key dates: September 14: The mailroom starts accepting letters to Santa November 2: Registration opens for adopters November 16: Letter adoption begins December 5: Last call for letter writers December 12: Last day to adopt a letter and the recommended ship-by date Mail letters early, since the earliest ones have the most time to be adopted. Letters may be published online without personal identifying information, and not every letter is guaranteed to be adopted. Adopt a Family LA Serving families in Downtown Los Angeles Adopt a Family LA grew out of a Christmas basket program for Skid Row families that began in 1990 at St. Vibiana Cathedral. Today it works to bring Christmas gifts and joy to disadvantaged children and families in Downtown Los Angeles, with the help of sponsors and volunteers. Visit the website to learn how families are connected with the program. LA County Toy Loan Program Toy Loan Centers across Los Angeles County Year-round Here is a hidden gem that helps long after the holidays. The free Toy Loan Program, co-sponsored by the LA County Board of Supervisors and the Department of Public Social Services, lets kids borrow toys from a Toy Loan Center the same way they borrow library books. It started in 1935 and serves more than 25,000 children each year. Free Holiday Meals, Food, and Family Assistance Holiday help is not only about gifts. These organizations can help with food, holiday baskets, and emergency needs. Services and eligibility vary by location, so call ahead to ask what is available in 2026. 211 LA Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, 24 hours a day If you only make one call, make it this one. 211 LA connects Los Angeles County residents with food, shelter, utility help, and local holiday programs, and specialists can point you to toy and meal giveaways near your home. Los Angeles Regional Food Bank Partner pantries across Los Angeles County Use the Food Bank's pantry locator to find a food pantry near you. Many partner pantries add holiday distributions in November and December, so ask about turkey or holiday grocery giveaways when you call. Catholic Charities of Los Angeles 1531 James M. Wood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015 Catholic Charities runs community centers throughout Los Angeles County that offer emergency assistance, and families have turned to them for food help around the holidays. Use the "Find a Local Center" tool on the website to reach the location closest to you. West Angeles Community Development Corporation 6028 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 751-3440 West Angeles CDC's Community Assistance Department offers case management and support for families in South Los Angeles. Call and ask what holiday and emergency help is available this season. Harbor Interfaith Services 670 W. 9th St. San Pedro, CA 90731 (310) 831-0603 Harbor Interfaith serves families in the South Bay and Harbor area with food, family support, and a children's center. The organization also coordinates holiday giving each year, so it is worth asking about holiday help for your children. Grace Resources 45134 Sierra Hwy. Lancaster, CA 93534 (661) 940-5272 Antelope Valley families can turn to Grace Resources for grocery distributions and hot meals. Its office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles 210 N. Avenue 21 Los Angeles, CA 90031 1-800-974-3571 Through local parish volunteers, St. Vincent de Paul offers home visits, food pantries, and direct aid to neighbors in need. Contact your nearest Catholic parish to ask whether its St. Vincent de Paul conference is offering holiday help. LA County Department of Public Social Services Offices throughout Los Angeles County DPSS handles CalFresh food benefits, cash aid, and other programs that can make a real difference during the winter months. The department also runs a holiday Adopt-A-Family effort, where volunteers donate food, toys, and clothing for some of its neediest clients. Tips for Getting Holiday Help for Your Family Apply early. Most toy and tree programs close once they reach capacity, often well before December. Apply to more than one program. Supplies are limited, and a backup plan takes the pressure off. Have documents ready. Photo ID, proof of address, and proof of your children's ages are the most common requests. Ask your child's school. Counselors and family centers often know about local giveaways first. Watch for scams. Legitimate programs will never ask you to pay a fee to receive free toys or a tree. Say thank you. A simple card from the kids means a lot to the volunteers who make these programs happen. Want to Give Back? How Families Can Help If your family is in a position to give this year, every one of these programs relies on donations. Drop a new, unwrapped toy at a Toys for Tots bin or your local fire station for Spark of Love, adopt a letter through USPS Operation Santa starting November 16, or pick an "angel" from a Salvation Army Angel Tree. Letting your kids choose and wrap a gift for another child is one of the sweetest ways to teach compassion during the holidays. Our guides to Christmas and holiday events for LA families, free and cheap things to do over winter break, and magical places to see holiday lights are full of budget-friendly ways to celebrate, too. 📬 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 Getting a free Christmas tree, toys, or holiday meals in Los Angeles is possible in 2026, but timing matters. Mark your calendar for USPS Operation Santa's December 5 letter deadline, watch for the Toys for Tots partner-agency list after November 1, and check the Salvation Army Angel Tree site for your ZIP code. If you are not sure where to start, dial 211. And if you are able to give, your donation of a toy, a meal, or an adopted letter helps another LA family have a brighter holiday. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How do I get a free Christmas tree in Los Angeles? You can request a free decorated tree from The Christmas Tree Project using its online form, though trees are limited and not guaranteed. Military families can ask their base about Trees for Troops, and fourth and fifth graders can get a free national forest tree permit through Every Kid Outdoors. 2. How do I sign up for Toys for Tots in Los Angeles? In the Los Angeles area, families request toys through approved partner agencies rather than directly from the Marine Corps campaign. The local agency list is posted after November 1, 2026. 3. When is the deadline for USPS Operation Santa letters in 2026? The U.S. Postal Service lists Saturday, December 5, 2026, as the last day for letter writers. Adopters can register starting November 2, and letter adoption begins November 16. 4. What documents do I need for the Salvation Army Angel Tree? You may be asked for a photo ID and proof of residence, such as a lease, a utility bill, or mail from your school district or a government agency. You will also share your child's clothing and shoe sizes and a toy wish. 5. Who can I call for holiday help in LA County? Dial 2-1-1 any time to reach 211 LA, which connects LA County residents with food, shelter, and local holiday assistance programs. ❤️ You May Also Like 43 Free Christmas Events in Los Angeles Kids Will Love 40+ Best Places to Buy Christmas Trees in Los Angeles What's Open on Christmas Day in LA: Family-Friendly Spots

Find the best things to do with kids near me: weekend events, museums, parks, birthday party places, free activities, and seasonal family guides. Activities For Los Angeles Families The Latest Latest and the Greatest Catch Up On Our Latest Articles Covering Everything Families And Kids Need To Thrive, Play, And Discover! Halloween Spooktacular Halloween Fun Dive into LA's Spooktacular Wonderland of Family-Friendly Halloween Adventures, Pumpkin Patches, and Magical Fall Festivities! Places To Go Explore, Learn, Cherish Embark on a Joyful Journey to Kid-Approved Fun Spots and Create Lasting Memories While You Explore! Guides for Los Angeles Families Events Family Fun Unleashed Discover LA’s Most Magical Moments—Curated Events & Hidden Gems Your Family Will Love! Best of LA L.A.'s Best Picks Uncover the Essence of Los Angeles in Curated Gems and Must-Try Wonders to Enjoy With Your Family! Weekends Family Weekend Fun Make every weekend memorable with family-friendly activities, events, and adventures in Los Angeles! Birthdays Kids' Party Magic Discover the Ultimate Kid's Party Wonderland: Top Venues, Amazing Entertainers, Yummy Birthday Cakes and more! Classes Kids' Fun Classes Discover Cool Classes, Workshops, Parent & Me, and After-School Fun for Your Kiddos. It is Super Easy to Find a Class Near You! Camps Explore Camp Options Explore Our Giant List of Day Camps, Sleep-Away Adventures, Religious Retreats, and Special Needs Camps in Los Angeles! Travel Family Fun Escapes Unearth Exciting Family Destinations, Find Top Spots for Camping, Cool Dude Ranches, And Beyond! Food Foodie Family Adventures Explore Fantastic Family-Friendly Eateries, Whip Up Speedy Lunch and Dinner Inspirations, and Dive into A World of Fun Food Finds! City Guides LA Family Guide Your go-to resource for family-friendly spots, activities, and tips across Los Angeles neighborhoods! SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTERS! Yes, send me fun ideas!

Dive into the latest family-friendly blog posts featuring activities, events, and tips for kids and families in Los Angeles. Discover new ideas to make every day special! Spotlight A Swiss Christmas Market is Landing on the Santa Monica Pier this Winter! 🎄 7 min read Huge List of Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals in and near Los Angeles! 15 min read 90 Best Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Los Angeles 2026! 34 min read Fun Things to Do with Kids in LA This Weekend, Oct 9 - Oct 11 15 min read 55 Best Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles in October 2026 21 min read Boo at the L.A. Zoo 2026: Trick-or-Treat With the Animals! 4 min read Los Angeles Costume Shops and Halloween Stores: Your Go-To Guide for the Best Finds! 8 min read Get Ready for the Ultimate Halloween Adventure: Night of the Jack 2026! 3 min read 9 SoCal Restaurants Where You Can Dine With the Animals! 8 min read Fright Fest Magic Mountain 2026: Is It Too Scary for Kids? 9 min read Halloween for Every Kid: Sensory & Allergy-Friendly Halloween Events & Tips (2026) 12 min read Best Halloween Books for Kids (Not Too Spooky)! 16 min read How to Get a Free Christmas Tree, Toys & Holiday Help in LA (2026) 9 min read Trick-or-Treating in Los Angeles Malls: 11 Spots for Free Candy (2026)! 11 min read Toddler Halloween Events in LA: 16 Gentle Daytime Picks! 13 min read Can Your Kid Read 5 Books? In-N-Out Will Buy Them a Burger (2026) 6 min read Twinning With Your Tiny Pumpkin: 47 Mom and Baby Halloween Costumes for 2026 17 min read 3 Massive Attractions Coming to LA—The First Will Wow Your Kids! 6 min read Día de los Muertos in Los Angeles 2026: Family Celebrations Beyond Forest Lawn 11 min read Home Alone Under the Stars at Dodger Stadium: Family Movie Night Guide! 5 min read A Harry Potter Hotel Is Coming to LEGOLAND — in Germany! 5 min read $8 Movie Tickets at AMC Through the End of 2026! 7 min read All Aboard! THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Is Rolling Into Perris for 2026 7 min read "Like Nastya Live" at The Wiltern: Los Angeles Family Guide 2026! 8 min read Family-Friendly Haunted Houses in LA 2026! 14 min read Dog Halloween Parades, Pet Costume Contests, and Dog-Friendly Halloween Events in LA (2026) 10 min read La Brea Tar Pits Insider Tour: 2026 Family Guide to Fossils, Excavations & More! 7 min read Knott's Spooky Farm 2026: Daytime Halloween Fun for Little Kids! 9 min read Manual Cinema’s Leonardo! at The Wallis: 2026 Family Guide 10 min read 18 Halloween Science Experiments for Kids That Fizz & Glow! 17 min read Fleurs de Villes 2026: The Gilded Age Blooms at Greystone Mansion! 7 min read DATALAND Los Angeles: Is LA's New AI Museum Worth It for Kids? 8 min read Pumpkins, Apples & Glowing Trails: 45 Fall Activities in and near LA for Kids! 17 min read Grand Ave Arts: All Access 2026 — Free Family Guide to DTLA’s Biggest Arts Day 10 min read Game Truck Party in LA: 21 Companies, Real Prices & Tips (2026) 15 min read Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in Los Angeles — 2026 Family Guide! 12 min read 23 Best Date Night Ideas in Los Angeles for Parents Who Finally Booked the Sitter (2026) 9 min read Halloween Horror Nights 2026: A Guide for Families and Teens 10 min read AI Business Ideas for Kids and Teens: 20 Side Hustles to Start Now (2026) 17 min read Complete Guide to Halloween Time at Disneyland 2026! 6 min read 23 Fun Halloween Costumes for LA Kids: The Biggest Trends of 2026 7 min read 9 Best LA Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating With Kids (2026) 6 min read California Science Center Homeschool Days Fall 2026: Dates, Registration & Parent Guide 9 min read Disney's Beauty and the Beast Comes to Costa Mesa: Your Family Guide 8 min read Get Lost in the Best Corn Mazes in Southern California This Fall! 12 min read Afterglow at Santa Monica Pier: See the Free Photo Exhibit Before It Closes 7 min read The Other Art Fair Los Angeles 2026: A Family Guide to Art, Mini Golf, and Free Kids’ Admission 10 min read 1 2 3 4 5 SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTERS! Yes, send me fun ideas!

Discover upcoming family-friendly events and experiences near me in Los Angeles! Explore exciting activities like holiday celebrations, theater shows, and outdoor fun updated regularly for kids and families. Family-Friendly Events Discover family-friendly events and fun things to do in L.A. with your kids on the weekends and every day of the week! We couldn’t load Events due to a technical issue Refresh your page to try again Refresh Page 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 Bob Baker's Hallowe'en Spooktacular Sep 05, 2026, 10:30 AM – Nov 08, 2026, 2:30 PM Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 4949 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042, 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 Kidspace Children's Museum, 480 N Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103, 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 Kid Quest in Los Angeles: Superhero City Adventure for Kids (Ages 4–8) Sep 23, 2026, 9:00 AM Downtown Beverly Hills, 226 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, 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 Load More