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Santa Monica Place - 11:00 AM
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Fun & Free Things to Do with LA Kids this Weekend: Kid's Film Fest, Doo Dah & Puppet March, April 27 - 28
It doesn't start until Monday and I’m already stressing. I speak of course of Screen Free Week, in which parents are encouraged to turn off (TVs, Blackberries, iPads) and tune in (to the great big world out there). Surviving a week without screens, is that even possible?
Here’s my suggestion: get as much screen time in as you can this weekend. To get you started, may I suggest the Los Angeles Children's Film Festival? We caught a few of the films last weekend and there is much to amuse and inspire young film-goers. To give you an idea of what you’re in for, check out the reviews from our kid critics, (they say it much better than we ever could!) And be sure to buy your festival tickets through our links - a hefty chunk of change will be donated to the school of your choice!
There’s one screen usage even the most avowed Luddite couldn’t begrudge, and that’s logging onto Mommy Poppins. (How else are you going to find the ultimate scoop on fun activities for your family?) So friend us on Facebook, sign up for emails and tweets, or go old school and type in our URL; Mommy Poppins is here to help you through. To get you started, keep reading for our favorite picks for this weekend…
OUR LATEST VIDEOS
ALL WEEKEND
Los Angeles Children's Film Festival - Santa Monica
American Cinematheque hosts its first annual Los Angeles Children's Film Festival, with totally fun cool movies for kids! (Seriously, check 'em out!)
International Children’s Day - Long Beach
The Aquarium of the Pacific celebrates the amazing talents of children of all cultures.
Last Weekends of the Month at the Skirball - West Los Angeles
This month’s family program allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of dancer/educator Belize Wilheim as she guides families through the campus-wide performance installation Exodus Steps, an innovative re-telling of the Passover story starring ... you!
Grand Butterfly Release - Pasadena
Let's talk metamorphosis: kids can enjoy all sorts of butterfly fun, including the release of more than 1000 of the winged creatures at the Kidspace Children's Museum. The Hollow Trees entertain both days.
Oz The Great & Powerful in 3D (PG) - Hollywood
Last chance to see the wizard at El Capitan before he eases on down that Yellow Brick Road….
SATURDAY APRIL 27
LA Family School Totstock Fiesta & Music Festival - Los Feliz
Kids can enjoy face painting, derby car racing, arts & crafts, a confetti egg toss, plus performances by Lisa Loeb and Ryan Cabrera at this festival that’s as much fun for the parents as it is for the kids.
Give Hugs Comedy Film Festival in Venice - Venice
Electric Lodge showcases funny short films by locals of all ages.
LA Sanitation East Valley Yard Open House - Sun Valley
Kids can see LA's garbage trucks up close, take a tour of the can warehouse, see the maintenance facilities, and enjoy a free lunch. Holding out for one closer to home? We have the whole season of trash and recycling events listed.
A Faery Hunt Presents Fairy Time in the Enchanted Garden - Palos Verdes Peninsula
Faery folk lead a magical walkabout in the enchanted gardens of South Coast Botanic Garden, with stories, dancing, singing, and fun.
What's Up For Kids Expo - Torrance
Parents can learn about camps, classes, and activities while kids enjoy hands-on activities, a craft area, face painting, a bouncer, and more.
Santa Monica Mountains Science Fest - Agoura Hills
Science is pretty cool. Learning about it in the Santa Monica Mountains is even cooler.
Doo Dah Parade - Pasadena
Kids and adults alike delight at the quirky humor of the Doo Dah Parade (as they check off another item on our 100 Things LA Bucket List).
Earth Day Celebration and Concert - Manhattan Beach
Earth Day ain’t over yet! Manhattan Beach celebrates with music, games, and kids activities at Polliwog Park.
Rhythms of the Universe – Pasadena
The Norton Simon Family Day takes a look at Shiva, one of the principal gods in Hinduism.
IRL Rendered: MOCA Teen Night - Downtown
MOCA hosts this annual free event planned by teens for teens.
SUNDAY APRIL 28
LA's Largest Puppet Parade Ever and Closing Ceremonies - Santa Monica
Grab your puppet and join the puppet parade! (Don’t have a puppet? You can make one in the free workshop before the parade.)
24th Annual Fiesta Broadway - Downtown
Fiesta Broadway is the nation's largest Cinco de Mayo celebration, drawing nearly 500,000 people to join in the festivities.
Heidi Swedberg & the Sukey Jump Band - Santa Monica
Heidi Swedberg and the band bring old folk songs (and fresh ones!) to life on ukulele, magical musical saw, big ol' bass, and who knows what else at McCabe's biweekly kids concert series.
World City at The Music Center: Väsen & Scandia Dancers - Downtown
World City introduces audiences to the music and dance of Scandinavia on this special Sunday edition of the free concert series.
Kids Run the Bases - Dodgers Home Game - Echo Park
The Dodgers take on the Brewers, plus kids in attendance get a free batting helmet.
LA Preschool Fair, Spring 2013 - West Los Angeles
The Parents Education League Spring Preschool Fair brings together representatives from numerous Los Angeles preschools to help you find the right match for your kids.
Kids in the Courtyard: Become a Giant Architect - Westwood
This Sunday at the Fowler, kids can join with other budding construction engineers to build a miniature dream neighborhood.
As always, there are many more activities listed on our daily events calendar. Whatever you choose to do this weekend, we hope you have marvelous time, and many happy returns.
