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
Thursday, June 25, 2026
9:00 am – 7:00 pm: Splash Park @ El Cerrito Swim Center9:00 am – 11:00 am: Tiny Tides @ The Wave at Emerald Glen Park
10:00 am – 11:30 am: Play Cafe @ 81st Avenue Branch | Oakland Public Library
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Storytime @ El Cerrito Library
10:30 am – 11:30 am: Summer Tinker Tots @ Main Branch | San Leandro Public Library
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Exploration Station @ San Pablo Public Library
11:00 am – 11:45 am: Insect Discovery Lab @ Melrose Branch | Oakland Public Library
11:00 am – 12:00 pm: Story Stroll @ Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Park
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Read to a Dog @ Rockridge Branch | Oakland Public Library
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Stories that Dance: Laya Arts Collective @ Hercules Library
Free & Cheap Resources for Families
Park Profile: Pine Meadow Park in Martinez
Pine Meadow Park is a sweet neighborhood park with a unique play structure, accessible design, spinning merry-go-round, and swings.
Best Places to Take Kids in Concord
Discover 15+ destinations and small town treasures for families to plan an amazing day in Concord.
Oakland’s Mountain View Cemetery Holiday Circle of Lights
This easy evening outing includes a festive holiday light display and it's located near tons of dinner spots.
Where to Mail Your Letters to Santa
Here's how to send your children's letters to Santa Claus, some with special mailboxes to the North Pole and some ways even easier!
Tilden Park Botanic Garden, Free Fun for All Ages
The Tilden Regional Parks Botanic Garden, an enchanted, not-so-secret garden, is a magical place for visitors of all ages at no cost.
Baby Consignment Stores in the East Bay
I love that the East Bay has so many places to get quality used kids' clothes. Consignment sales are ideal for snow pants, dress clothes, ...
Best Bay Area Christmas Events for Families
Your Christmas planner of family-friendly Bay Area Christmas event picks for toddlers to teens.
Sensory-Friendly Santa Claus Visits
Find special times and places where Santa will be available for special needs children.
10+ Free Holiday Happenings at Alameda South Shore Center
Beginning with a tree lighting Nov. 28 through Christmas Eve, your family can visit Santa Claus and see holiday movies outdoors.
Paws to Read: A Cuddly Option for Young Readers
Children can practice reading to trained furry friends in supportive literacy programs found at various East Bay library branches.
