Free & Cheap
Family-friendly Bay Area Fun on The Cheap
Discounted admission to museums, plays, classes and other tips to discover free fun for East Bay Area children.
Upcoming Free or Cheap Events in the East Bay
Friday, October 23, 2026
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: Explore Blake Garden @ Blake Garden10:00 am – 10:50 am: Community Preschool Yoga @ Yama Kids Yoga
10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Shabbat & Play @ Temple Sinai
10:30 am – 11:00 am: Story Time @ Crab Cove @ Crab Cove Visitor Center
11:15 am – 12:15 pm: Oaktown Jazz Storytime @ Richmond Library | West Side Branch
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Trunk or Treat @ Civic Park & Community Center (Walnut Creek)
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm: Costume Swap @ Swings and Wings
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm: MOCHA Creative Art Play @ Central Library | Berkeley Public Library
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Petting Zoo @ The Backyard
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Haunted Trail @ Pleasant Hill Park
Free & Cheap Resources for Families
Winter Brainstorm: 25 Things to Do that Cost $10 or Less
$10 is enough for a fun family outing with a little kid in the Bay Area. Here are 25 low-cost ideas!
Best Christmas Lights in the East Bay
We love holiday lights! Whether you stay in the car and do a "drive-by" or get out to stroll, East Bay Christmas light displays are ...
Best East Bay Holiday Lights: Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane
The best holiday lights in the East Bay are on Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda where the neighbors create a magical holiday experience.
On Sale Now: Golden Gate Park Lights Up with Lightscape
Lightscape at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco is a glorious ticketed one-mile wander through light and sound.
10+ All-Abilities Playgrounds and Play Spaces Near Oakland
Inclusive playgrounds are designed with innovative features to welcome children of all ages and capabilities. These are within an hour of Oakland.
Free Storytimes Around the East Bay
A round-up of kid-friendly story readings in the next 30 days, including libraries, bookstores, and other fun places. Let someone else read to you
Secret Spots: John Hinkel Park in North Berkeley
There's a terrific playground at John Hinkel Park, plus paths to explore for those who like a climb.
A Little Kids’ Guide to Downtown Benicia
Downtown Benicia is the cutest little place with some big history. With California's third capitol building, picnic, seashore, treats & more!
Shop Local: Christmas Crafts to Enjoy Together
Here are the holiday crafts I love to do with my young daughter and the local shops where we pick up supplies in Berkeley, Oakland, ...
The Impeccable Christmas Lights and Gardens at Oakland’s Temple Hill
Enjoy Christmas lights, music, and the exquisite gardens high above Oakland on Temple Hill.
