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
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
10:30 am – 11:00 am: Sing N Storytime @ Lafayette Library and Learning Center10:30 am – 11:00 am: Storytime on the Lawn @ North Branch | Berkeley Public Library
11:00 am – 11:30 am: Little Listeners Storytime @ San Lorenzo Library
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Kids Craft Hour @ Albany Library
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: MOCHA at the Library @ Montclair Branch | Oakland Public Library
Thursday, April 2, 2026
9:30 am – 11:00 am: Together Wee Play @ James Kenney Park & Community Center10:00 am – 11:45 am: Garden Playdate @ Melrose Branch | Oakland Public Library
10:00 am – 11:30 am: Play Cafe @ 81st Avenue Branch | Oakland Public Library
10:00 am – 10:30 am: Toddler Time @ Albany Library
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Storytime @ El Cerrito Library
Free & Cheap Resources for Families
Indigenous People’s Heritage Month for Kids
November is Indigenous People’s Heritage Month. Here are a few ways to reflect on the cultures, traditions, and history of the Bay Area's first peoples.
Halloween Events for East Bay Kids
Fun and safe Halloween events and activities for kids in Oakland, Berkeley, and surrounding areas.
Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month for Kids & Families
Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 through October 15. We found a variety of ways to celebrate with kids in the East Bay.
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!
Celebrating Diwali with Kids in the East Bay
Buy your tickets now for these family-friendly Navratri and Diwali events in the East Bay and South Bay. Tickets will sell out.
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, ...
Community Music Day at Crowden School is Back
Community Music Day at the Crowden School offers free hands-on music experiences for children.
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.
What to Do With Kids on Berkeley’s Fourth Street
Berkeley's Fourth Street has the food, fun, and stuff to please folks of all ages. Up early? Love trains? Reptiles? Coffee? Toys? Come on.
